Smart aviation communication headset and peripheral components

ABSTRACT

In one embodiment, an aviation communication headset includes, but is not limited to, at least one microphone; one or more speakers; one or more docks configured to interface with one or more eyepieces; and at least one control unit operable to perform operations including at least: detecting a presence of one or more eyepieces at the one or more docks; and outputting aviation flight information via the one or more docks for display on the one or more eyepieces.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 62/326,657 filed Apr. 22, 2016; U.S. provisionalpatent application Ser. No. 62/326,938 filed Apr. 25, 2016; U.S.provisional patent application Ser. No. 62/327,369 filed Apr. 25, 2016;U.S. provisional patent application 62/328,482 filed Apr. 27, 2016; U.S.provisional patent application 62/329,550 filed Apr. 29, 2016; U.S.provisional patent application 62/343,491 filed May 31, 2016; U.S.provisional patent application 62/357,893 filed Jul. 1, 2016; U.S.provisional patent application 62/376,143 filed Aug. 17, 2016; U.S.provisional patent application 62/395,052 filed Sep. 15, 2016; and U.S.provisional patent application 62/414,175 filed Oct. 28, 2016. Theforegoing applications are incorporated by reference in their entiretyas if fully set forth herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to aviation technology, and morespecifically, to a smart aviation communication headset and itsperipheral components.

BACKGROUND

One of the inventors, in addition to being a patent attorney, is aprivate pilot with an instrument rating and also is a builder/owner ofan Vans RV-10 experimental aircraft. In the course of flight trainingand building the RV-10 aircraft, this inventor was exposed to the mostadvanced experimental and/or certified aviation technology on the marketand their respective limitations. These efforts led to the inventionsdisclosed herein which significantly improve upon current aviationtechnologies to enhance aviation safety and decrease pilot workload.

SUMMARY

This invention relates generally to aviation technology, and morespecifically, to a smart aviation communication headset and itsperipheral components.

In one embodiment, an aviation communication headset includes, but isnot limited to, at least one microphone; one or more speakers; one ormore docks configured to interface with one or more eyepieces; and atleast one control unit operable to perform operations including atleast: detecting a presence of one or more eyepieces at the one or moredocks; and outputting aviation flight information via the one or moredocks for display on the one or more eyepieces.

In another embodiment, an aviation communication headset includes, butis not limited to, at least one microphone; one or more speakers; one ormore physiological sensors operable to monitor one or more healthparameters of a wearer; and at least one control unit operable toperform operations including at least: obtaining one or more values fromthe one or more physiological sensors; and outputting informationregarding the one or more values via the one or more speakers.

In a further embodiment, an aviation communication headset includes, butis not limited to, one or more speakers; at least one microphone; atleast one receptacle for mounting an oxygen container; and at least onecannula for dispensing oxygen.

In yet another embodiment, an aviation communication headset insertdevice includes, but is not limited to, an earlobe receptacle; tensionmembers extending from opposing ends of the earlobe receptacle totensionally brace the insert device within an ear cup of an aviationheadset; a physiological sensor incorporated into the earlobereceptacle; a speaker; computer readable memory; and a control unitconfigured to perform operations including at least: obtaining one ormore physiological measurements using the physiological sensor; andoutputting one or more audible indications associated with the one ormore physiological measurements via the speaker.

In another embodiment, an aviation communication headset includes, butis not limited to, at least one speaker; at least one microphone; atleast one control unit; at least one global positioning system (GPS)unit; at least one panel communication link operable to interface with apanel-mounted communication system of an aircraft; at least one headsetcommunication radio; and at least one headset push-to-talk button thatwhen activated causes the at least one control unit to bypass the atleast one panel communication link and transmit one or more radiobroadcasts using the at least one headset communication radio.

In one other embodiment, an aviation communication headset includes, butis not limited to, at least one speaker; at least one microphone; atleast one camera for capturing one or more images in a field of view;and at least one control unit operable to perform operations includingat least: obtaining visual field of view information using the at leastone camera; and outputting feedback information via the at least onespeaker.

In another embodiment, an aviation communication headset cushionreplacement includes, but is not limited to, an earlobe receptacle; aphysiological sensor incorporated into the earlobe receptacle; aspeaker; computer readable memory; and a control unit configured toperform operations including at least: obtaining one or morephysiological measurements using the physiological sensor; andoutputting one or more audible indications associated with the one ormore physiological measurements via the speaker.

Additional details may be included in any of these embodiments asillustrated, discussed, or claimed herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below withreferences to the following drawings

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a smart aviation communication headsetsystem, in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of an aviation communication headsetinsert device, in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 1C is a perspective view of an aviation communication headsetreplacement cushion device, in accordance with embodiments of theinvention;

FIG. 1D is a perspective view of a clip device wearable with an aviationcommunication headset, in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 1E is a perspective view of an aviation communication headsetcushion interface device, in accordance with embodiments of theinvention;

FIG. 1F is a perspective view of an aviation communication headsetreplacement cushion device with a heads up display, in accordance withembodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a systems diagram of a smart aviation communication headset incommunication with aircraft systems and electronic flight accessories,in accordance with various embodiments of the invention; and

FIGS. 3-126 are system diagrams of various devices including a controlunit that is configured to perform specified functional operations, inaccordance with various embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This invention relates generally to aviation technology, and morespecifically, to a smart aviation communication headset and itsperipheral components. Specific details of certain embodiments of theinvention are set forth in the following description and in FIGS. 1-126to provide a thorough understanding of such embodiments. The presentinvention may have additional embodiments, may be practiced without oneor more of the details described for any particular describedembodiment, or may have any detail described for one particularembodiment practiced with any other detail described for anotherembodiment.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a smart aviation communication headsetsystem, in accordance with embodiments of the invention. FIG. 1B is aperspective view of an aviation communication headset insert device, inaccordance with embodiments of the invention. FIG. 1C is a perspectiveview of an aviation communication headset replacement cushion device, inaccordance with embodiments of the invention. FIG. 1D is a perspectiveview of a clip device wearable with an aviation communication headset,in accordance with embodiments of the invention. FIG. 1E is aperspective view of an aviation communication headset cushion interfacedevice, in accordance with embodiments of the invention. FIG. 1F is aperspective view of an aviation communication headset replacementcushion device with a heads up display, in accordance with embodimentsof the invention.

In one embodiment, the aviation communication headset 100 includes, butis not limited to, a headset 100, augmented reality eyewear 120, virtualreality or synthetic vision eyewear 121, an oxygen system 116, and anauxiliary communication radio 138. Certain embodiments further includean earpiece insert device 150, a replacement cushion device 164, anearclip device 184, an earcup attachment device 202, or a replacementcushion device 216.

In some embodiments, the aviation communication headset 100 can includeany combination of a control unit 106, computer memory with executableinstructions 108, a wireless communication unit 110, speakers 112, amicrophone 114, cushion 164, a physiological sensor 118, an auxiliarypush to talk button 122, a field of view camera 170, an oxygen sensor128, an ADS-B receiver 130, a magnetometer 132, a GPS receiver 134, anADAHRS 136, a biometric sensor 140 or 141, a carbon monoxide sensor 142,an orientation movement sensor 144, DC power 104, an eyewear dock 123,and an avionics panel communication link 137. The aviation communicationheadset 100 can interface with and/or incorporate augmented realityeyewear 120, virtual reality or synthetic vision eyewear 121, earpieceinsert device 150, a replacement cushion device 164, an earclip device184, an earcup attachment device 202, a replacement cushion device 216,armband display 139, oxygen system 116, or auxiliary com radio 138.Thus, the headset 100 is modular and can include any one or more of theherein referenced features or embodiments.

The control unit 106, memory 108, and DC power 104 are configured toperform various special purpose operations involving the headset 100,the oxygen system 116, the auxiliary communication radio 138, theaugmented reality eyewear 120, the virtual or synthetic vision eyewear121, the armband display 139, the earpiece insert device 150, areplacement cushion device 164, an earclip device 184, an earcupattachment device 202, or a replacement cushion device 216. Theseoperations will be discussed further herein.

In certain embodiments, the wireless communication unit 110 isconfigured to wirelessly communicate data to or from any of thefollowing aircraft systems: avionics, navigation unit, radio,transponder, autopilot, intercom, ADS-B transmitter/receiver, GPS unit,ADAHRS, or ELT. The wireless communication unit 110 can wirelesscommunicate data to or from any of the following electronic flightaccessories: smartphone or tablet, smartwatch, armband electronicdisplay, electronic display visor, or electronic display kneeboard (seeFIG. 2).

In certain embodiments, the ADS-B receiver 130 includes a receiver tocapture traffic and weather information broadcast from other ADS-Btransmitters (e.g., aircraft, ground, or satellite based). The ADS-Breceiver 130 can be physically incorporated into the smart aviationcommunication headset 100 or can be wirelessly linked as a portable unitor aircraft panel mounted device. The ADS-B receiver 130 can include anincorporated antenna or can be linked to an externally-mounted antenna.The ADS-B receiver 130 enables enhanced functionalities of the smartaviation communication headset 100. For example, information obtainedfrom the ADS-B receiver 130 (e.g., traffic and weather), can be used tooutput audible indications via the speakers 112 or visual indicationsvia the augmented/virtual reality eyewear 120 or eyewear 121 or thearmband display 139. Additionally, information obtained from the ADS-Breceiver 130 can be used to enhance traffic recognition of theaugmented/virtual reality eyewear 120, or tune the auxiliary com radio138. Many other functions involving the ADS-B receiver 130 are discussedherein.

In certain embodiments, the magnetometer 132, GPS receiver 134, ADAHRS236, and the orientation/movement sensor 144 provide magnetic heading,position, altitude, pitch, bank, yaw, heading, turn coordination,position data, speed, person's head orientation, person's head bank,person's head movement information for use by the aviation communicationheadset 100. Any of the foregoing components can be physicallyincorporated into the smart aviation communication headset 100 or can bewirelessly linked, such as a portable unit or a panel mounted device.Any of the foregoing components can use gyroscopes and/or solid statesensors. Any of the foregoing components can include integrated antennasor can be linked to externally mounted antennas. The magnetometer 132,GPS receiver 134, ADAHRS 136, and the orientation/movement sensor 144provide enhanced functionalities for the smart aviation communicationheadset 100. For example, the magnetometer 132, GPS receiver 134, ADAHRS136, and the orientation/movement sensor 144 can be used to obtaininformation for output via the speakers 112, the augmented/virtualreality eyewear 120 or eyewear 121, and/or the auxiliary com radio 138.As one specific example, the eyewear 121 can display synthetic visioninformation for a particular orientation and position determined usingany of the magnetometer 132, GPS receiver 134, ADAHRS 136, and theorientation/movement sensor 144, permitting complete 360 field of viewin both horizontal and vertical planes. Additionally, the syntheticvision can be decoupled from a present position to enable a wearer toexplore areas different from the actual present location, using headmovements or voice commands to ‘navigate’ through space. This can beuseful in exploring navigational paths, terrain, weather, and trafficahead before arrival or as a potential alternate. Many other functionsusing the magnetometer 132, GPS receiver 134, ADAHRS 136, and theorientation/movement sensor 144 are discussed herein.

In certain embodiments, the aviation communication headset 100 includesvarious sensors to generate and/or provide feedback information. Thephysiological sensors 118 can be disposed on or within a headband orearcup, the eyepiece 120 or 121, the earpiece insert device 150, areplacement cushion device 164, an earclip device 184, an earcupattachment device 202, or a replacement cushion device 216 to obtainmeasurements using an ear, earlobe, temple area, eye, head, or skin ofan individual. The physiological sensor 218 can include a sensor foroxygen level, heart rate, pupil dilation, movement, blood pressure,respiration, skin coloration, chemical composition, perspiration,temperature, neurological electrical impulse, or other similar bodilyattribute. The control unit 106 uses this obtained physiologicalinformation and communicates the information and any warnings to variousoutputs such as speakers 112, augmented/virtual reality eyewear 120 oreyewear 121, armband display 139, and/or oxygen system 116. Theintegration of the physiological sensors 218 into the smart aviationcommunication headset 100 enables enhanced functionalities. Forinstance, if blood oxygen levels are below a specified threshold amount(which may account for time) an audible warning can be output via thespeakers 112, a visual warning can be output via the augmented/virtualreality eyewear 120 or eyewear 121 or the armband display 139, anautopilot can initiate a descent, and the oxygen system 116 can becontrolled to dispense supplemental oxygen. Many additional functionsinvolving the physiological sensor 218 are described herein.

The oxygen sensor 128 is physically associated with or incorporated intothe smart aviation communication headset 100, such as an earcup orheadband portion, the eyepiece 120/121, a replacement cushion device164, an earclip device 184, an earcup attachment device 202, areplacement cushion device 216, or the armband display 139. The oxygensensor 128 is configured to monitor and detect a level of ambient oxygenpresent. As an aircraft climbs, the level of oxygen decreases. However,a level of decrease is not precise as it can be influenced bytemperature, pressure, and humidity levels. Accordingly, the oxygensensor 128 captures actual oxygen level measurements. The control unit106 uses this obtained oxygen concentration/level information andcommunicates the information and any warnings to various outputs such asspeakers 112, augmented/virtual reality eyewear 120 or eyewear 121,armband display 139, and/or oxygen system 116. The integration of theoxygen sensor 128 into the smart aviation communication headset 100enables enhanced functionalities. For instance, if oxygen levels arebelow a specified threshold amount an audible warning can be output viathe speakers 112, a visual warning can be output via theaugmented/virtual reality eyewear 120 or eyewear 121 or armband display139, the autopilot can initiate a descent, and the oxygen system 116 canbe controlled to dispense supplemental oxygen, which control can includeregulation based on the level of atmospheric oxygen detected and/orinformation obtained from the physiological sensor 118. Many additionalfunctions involving the oxygen sensor 128 are described herein.

In some embodiments, the aviation communication headset 100 includes thecarbon monoxide sensor 142 that is configured to detect carbon monoxideabove a specified threshold level. The carbon monoxide sensor 142 isincorporated in an earcup or headband portion of the smart aviationcommunication headset 100, the earpiece insert device 150, a replacementcushion device 164, an earclip device 184, an earcup attachment device202, a replacement cushion device 216, or the armband display 139.

The information obtained from the carbon monoxide sensor 142 is usableto perform enhanced functions using the smart aviation communicationheadset 100. For instance, in an event of an engine exhaust leak, carbonmonoxide can build up within a cabin.

Because carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless and toxic, such carbonmonoxide buildup can result in harm to occupants. The informationobtained from the carbon monoxide sensor 142 can be output to thespeakers 112, the augmented virtual reality eyewear 120 or eyewear 121,or the armband 139. This information can be an audible or visual warningof dangerous levels of detected carbon monoxide. The informationobtained from the carbon monoxide sensor 142 can also be used tocontrol, regulate, and dispense oxygen from the oxygen system 116, suchas an emergency release of high levels of oxygen via a cannula or mask117 despite being at an altitude where supplemental oxygen is unneeded.The information obtained from the carbon monoxide sensor 142 can also beused to tune the auxiliary com radio 138 to an emergency or local ATCfrequency based on GPS position information, tune the transponder to anemergency code, broadcast an automated ‘mayday’ or ‘pan pan’ messageover the auxiliary com radio 138 or aircraft radio, control a navigationunit and autopilot to divert to a local airport, activate the ELT, andoutput emergency instructions via the augmented/virtual reality eyewear120 or eyewear 121 or armband display 139 to address the carbon monoxidelevels. Many other functions involving the carbon monoxide sensor 142are disclosed herein.

The biometric touch sensor 140 can detect fingerprint information of anindividual. This data can be stored, processed, and/or output to thevarious components such as via the speakers 112, the augmented realityeyewear 120, the virtual reality or synthetic vision eyewear 121, or thearmband display 139. The biometric sensor 140 is provided to identify awearer of the smart aviation communication headset 100. The biometricsensor 140 can be incorporated in an earcup or headband of the aviationcommunication headset 100 or can be incorporated in the auxiliarypush-to-talk button 122 or can be incorporated into theaugmented/virtual reality eyewear 120 or eyewear 121 or the armbanddisplay 139. The incorporation of the biometric sensor 140 into thesmart aviation communication headset 100 enables enhanced functionality.For example, identification of a user as a pilot can result incalibration of the aviation communication headset 100 for pilotfunctionality. For instance, the oxygen system 116 can be adjusted toadhere to FAA pilot required oxygen requirements as opposed to FAApassenger or crew member oxygen requirements. The augmented/virtualreality eyewear 120 or eyewear 121 or the armband display 139 can becalibrated to provide more technical situational, navigation, system,and communication information appropriate for a pilot as opposed to asight-seeing passenger or navigating-only copilot. Additionally, theauxiliary push-to-talk button 122 and the auxiliary com radio 138 can beenabled vs. disabled for non-pilot wearers. Further, the smart aviationcommunication headset 100 can be enabled as the hub to collectinformation communicated wirelessly from other headsets, such asphysiological information or oxygen system information. In certainembodiments, similar calibrations can be made for unrecognized wearers,recognized passengers, recognized co-pilots. The calibrations can beuser-determined or set to predetermined default values. Many otherfunctions involving the biometric sensors 140 are disclosed herein.

In one embodiment, camera 170 is configured to capture field of viewimagery associated with the headset 100, including cockpit andexternal-to-aircraft imagery. The camera 170 can be disposed orincorporated on the headband or earcup portion of the headset 100 or theeyepiece 120/121. The imagery data can be still or moving image data andcan be used for various special purpose operations as discussed furtherherein. The incorporation of the camera 170 into the smart aviationcommunication headset 100 enables enhanced functionality. For example,the camera 170 can be used to capture images of the avionics panel of anaircraft. This information can be used to detect abnormal instrumentreadings, lack of cross-check consistency between instruments, incorrectradio or navigation frequencies, incorrect control inputs (e.g.,mixture, prop, flap position, or trim position), low fuel situations, orthe like. Similarly, the camera 170 can be used to capture images of theenvironment outside the aircraft. This information can be used to detecttraffic, determine weather conditions such as cloud coverage or heightor visibility, determine geographic location, determine distances togeographic locations, identify buildings, cities, towns, airports,ground features, or the like. Many other functions involving the camera170 are disclosed herein.

In certain embodiments, the one or more eyewear docks 123 can include atleast one power pin and at least one data pin. The one or more docks canbe configured to interface with one or more virtual reality goggles 121or one or more augmented reality glasses 120 interchangeably. The one ormore docks 123 can be configured to pivot, rotate, shift, slide, orretractably extend to permit position adjustment of one or moreremovably coupled eyepieces 120 or 121. Therefore, the docks 123 therebyextend the functionality of the eyepieces 120 and 121 as well as theheadset 100 by permitting exchange of information as discussed furtherherein. For example, the docks 123 enable communication informationobtained by the headset 100 to be output as visual information via theeyepieces 120 or 121. This information can include ATC instructions,weather broadcasts, traffic alerts, common traffic broadcasts,plane-to-plane broadcasts, oxygen/physiological/carbon monoxide data,oxygen dispenser level and rate, or other similar information.Similarly, the docks 123 enable communication information obtained bythe eyepieces 120 or 121 to be output as visual information such as viathe armband display 139 or as audio information via the speakers 112.Such information can include traffic alerts, airspace alerts, weatherinformation, avionics or instrument or control information, or the like.Many other functions involving the camera dock 123 are disclosed herein.

In certain embodiments, the speakers 112 are audio outputs that producesound for reception by a wearer of the headset 100. The audio outputscan be associated with aircraft intercom, communication radio, andavionics, such as via the communication link 137, or can be associatedwith outputs from the eyewear 120 or 121, the oxygen system 116, theauxiliary communication radio 138, the control unit 106, the earpieceinsert device 150, the earpiece insert device 150, a replacement cushiondevice 164, an earclip device 184, an earcup attachment device 202, or areplacement cushion device 216.

In certain embodiments, the microphone 114 accepts speech audio inputsthat produce audio analog or audio digital signals for use by and/ortransmission from the headset 100. The audio signals can be output tothe speakers 112, aircraft intercom, communication radio, and avionics,such as via the communication link 137.

Furthermore, the audio signals can be output as control signals and/oras speech-to-text or speech-to-graphic data to the eyewear 120 or 121,the oxygen system 116, the auxiliary communication radio 138, thecontrol unit 106, the earpiece insert device 150, a replacement cushiondevice 164, an earclip device 184, an earcup attachment device 202, or areplacement cushion device 216.

The communication link 137 is an input/output link with the aircraftavionics system, intercom, or communication radio. The link 137 can bewired or wireless. Additionally, the link 137 can communicateinformation to and/or from the auxiliary communication radio 138.

In certain embodiments, the one or more augmented reality glasses 120can include at least one sideframe 131 that folds for docking andunfolds for wearing independent of the aviation communication headset100. The at least one sideframe 131 can include at least one power anddata port 125 that is contained therein and that is exposed upon foldingof the at least one sideframe 131. The augmented reality glasses 120provide additional information on a display to augment the actualreality view.

The augmented reality eyewear 120/121 can include a field of view camera126 that captures still and/or video imagery, such as from within thecockpit or of outside the aircraft. The field of view camera 126 can beincorporated into an earcup or frame of the smart aviation communicationheadset 100 (e.g., depicted as camera 170) or can be incorporated intothe augmented/virtual reality eyewear 120. The field of view camera 126can be one, two, or more cameras and may also capture images outside afield of view of an individual (e.g., peripheral, side, top, rear fieldcapture). The field of view camera 126 can also include peripheralcameras such as GO PRO or GARMIN cameras, which can be mounted within acabin or externally on an airframe. The field of view camera 126provides many enhanced functionalities for the smart aviationcommunication headset 100. For example, information obtained from thefield of view camera 126 can be used to stitch together a non-syntheticview of the world from a particular GPS coordinate and vantage point forenhancing or supplementing synthetic views, which information can beshared with multiple other smart aviation communication headsets 100 tocreate a comprehensive set of views. Additionally, information obtainedfrom the field of view camera 126 or 170 can be used for trafficidentification, airport/runway/taxiway/business identification,navigation, location/position identification, instrument calibration,instrument and avionics monitoring and cross-referencing, visibilitydetection, weather monitoring and data collection, augmented realityenhancement, or virtual reality inlay. Many other functions involvingthe field of view camera 126 are discussed herein.

The augmented reality eyewear 120/121 can include a user gaze trackingcamera 124 that is directed at the eyes of a wearer and is configured tocapture visual data associated with gaze direction, location, andpersistence or duration of gaze using pupil or iris movements. The usergaze tracking camera 124 can therefore determine a real, virtual, oraugmented reality object of focus or interest. The user gaze trackingcamera 124 can include one camera for one eye or two cameras with onecamera for each eye. Information obtained from the user gaze trackingcamera 124 can be used to perform enhanced functionalities using thesmart aviation communication headset 100. For example, focus on anaugmentation of an airport identifier can result in display of airportfrequency and approach information for the airport associated with theidentifier, tuning of the auxiliary com radio 138 to a frequencyassociated with the airport and a current GPS location, outputting audioinformation associated with the airport via speakers 112, adjusting oroutputting information to the armband display 139. Many other functionsinvolving the user gaze tracking camera 124 are discussed herein.

The augmented reality eyewear 120/121 can include a biometric sensor 141to capture image data associated with a retina or iris of a wearer forauthentication purposes. The biometric sensor 141 is provided toidentify a wearer of the smart aviation communication headset 100 and/orthe eyewear 120/121. The incorporation of the biometric sensor 140 intothe eyewear 120/121 enables enhanced functionality. For example,identification of a user as a pilot can result in calibration of theaviation communication headset 100, eyewear 120/121, or oxygen system116 for pilot functionality. For instance, the oxygen system 116 can beadjusted to adhere to FAA pilot required oxygen requirements as opposedto FAA passenger or crew member oxygen requirements. Theaugmented/virtual reality eyewear 120/121 can be calibrated to providemore technical situational, navigation, system, and communicationinformation appropriate for a pilot as opposed to a sight-seeingpassenger or navigating-only copilot. Additionally, the auxiliarypush-to-talk button 122 and the auxiliary com radio 138 can be enabledvs. disabled for non-pilot wearers. Further, the smart aviationcommunication headset 100 can be enabled as the hub to collectinformation communicated wirelessly from other headsets, such asphysiological information or oxygen system information. In certainembodiments, similar calibrations can be made for unrecognized wearers,recognized passengers, or recognized co-pilots. The calibrations can beuser-determined or set to predetermined default values. Many otherfunctions involving the biometric sensor 141 are disclosed herein.

In certain embodiments, the augmented reality glasses 120 are usableindependent of the aviation communication headset 100, such as fornon-aviation related purposes like driving, walking, socializing, etc.However, when desired to be used in conjunction with the aviationcommunication headset, such as for visual condition (VFR) conditions,navigation, situational awareness, speech to text display, etc., theframe 131 is folded about a hinge to expose the data/power plug 125. Thedata/power plug 125 is then inserted into the dock 123 to permit datafrom the augmented reality glasses 120 to be communicated to the controlunit 106 and for data from the control unit 106 to be communicated tothe augmented reality glasses 120. The augmented reality glasses 120 candock on both sides of the frame or on one or either side as depicted.The dock 123 pivots to permit the augmented reality glasses 120 to bepositioned out of a field of view, such as on a forehead of anindividual. When desired, the augmented reality glasses 120 can bedecoupled from the aviation communication headset 100 and stored or usedindependently. The physical coupling of the augmented reality glasses120 and the aviation communication 100 headset permits fast datatransfer therebetween and permits each device to benefit from theother's information (e.g., speech data form the headset 100 to bedisplayed in the augmented reality eyewear 120 and visual fieldinformation detected using the augmented reality eyewear 120 ordisplayed in the augmented reality eyewear 120 to be transformed intoaudio output from the headset 100). It is possible, however, to usewireless communication, such as BLUETOOTH or WIFI between the augmentedreality glasses 120 and the aviation communication headset 100 insteadof direct physical coupling. Many functions are disclosed herein thatutilize the augmented reality glasses 120 and associated components.

The one or more virtual reality or synthetic vision goggles 121 caninclude at least one power and data port 127 dongle for docking. The oneor more virtual reality goggles 121 can include at least one camera 129that provides a real-world image view of the cockpit or external of anaircraft, within the one or more virtual reality goggles 121.Differently from the augmented reality glasses 120, the virtualreality/synthetic vision goggles 121 provide a virtual/synthetic view ofthe outside world to simulate actual vision. In certain embodiments, thevirtual reality/synthetic vision goggles 121 are usable independent ofthe aviation communication headset 100, such as for non-aviation relatedpurposes like gaming, socializing, learning, working, etc. However, whendesired to be used in conjunction with the aviation communicationheadset, such as for instrument flight (IFR), the data/power plug 127 isthen inserted into the dock 123 to permit data from the virtualreality/synthetic vision goggles 121 to be communicated to the controlunit 106 and for data from the control unit 106 to be communicated tothe virtual reality/synthetic vision goggles 121. As is discussedfurther herein, the virtual reality/synthetic vision goggles 121 includea field of view camera 129 that enhances operation of the virtualreality/synthetic vision goggles 121. For instance, when visualconditions (VFR) are detected using the field of view camera 129, thevirtual reality/synthetic vision goggles 121 can alert a user to removethe same or, as another option, can present a thumbnail or full displayview of the actual field of view within the virtual reality/syntheticvision goggles 121. Various sensors and/or imagers can be incorporatedinto the virtual reality/synthetic vision goggles 121. For instance, abiometric eye scanner 141 or a user gaze tracking camera 124 can beincluded in the virtual reality/synthetic vision goggles 121. Whendesired, the virtual reality/synthetic vision goggles 121 can bedecoupled from the aviation communication headset 100 and stored or usedindependently. The physical coupling of the virtual reality/syntheticvision goggles 121 and the aviation communication headset 100 permitsfast data transfer therebetween and permits each device to benefit fromthe other's information (e.g., speech data from the headset 100 to bedisplayed within the goggles 121 and visual field information from thegoggles 121 to be transformed into audio output of the headset 100). Itis possible, however, to use wireless communication between the virtualreality/synthetic vision goggles 121 instead of direct physicalcoupling. Many functions are disclosed herein that utilize the virtualreality/synthetic vision goggles 121 and associated components.

The aviation communication headset 100 can include an oxygen system 116including at least one receptacle 115 for mounting at least one oxygencontainer 172, at least one oxygen regulator 119 operable to adjust aflow or concentration of dispensed oxygen via the cannula 117, and/or acontrol unit 106 operable to control operation of the oxygen system. Theoxygen system 116 is usable during flight above certain altitudes inunpressurized planes or during emergency decompression of pressurizedplanes. Receptacles 115 are provided that can receive oxygen containers172. No oxygen containers 172 are required or needed during manyaltitudes (e.g., less than 10000 feet during the day or less than 5000feet at night or depending on personal health attributes oracclimatization). Thus, the receptacles 115 and headset 100 can bedevoid of any oxygen containers 172 when not needed to minimize weight.The oxygen container 172 is intended for limited duration use (e.g. 5min to 1 hr) and can be replaced by another oxygen container 172 upondepletion. The cannula or the mask 117 can be movable in and out ofposition for use, disconnected when not in use, or substituted for oneanother depending upon needs or desires. Thus, when needed, the oxygencontainers 172 can be snapped or removably secured into place within tothe receptacles 115. The regulator 119 adjusts the flow of oxygen andthe cannula 117 is usable to deliver oxygen to a nasal passage of anindividual, which regulator 119 can be controlled by the control unit106 or can be set to a single one-size-fits-all setting. When depleted,replacement oxygen container 172 can be interchanged with depletedoxygen container 172, which can be carried in bulk or singularly with anaircraft. The oxygen container 172 can be refilled or exchanged at FBOsor via mail. Many functions are disclosed herein that utilize the oxygensystem 116.

The aviation communication headset 100 can include at least oneauxiliary communication radio 138 wired or wirelessly linked; and atleast one auxiliary push-to-talk button 122 that when activatedbroadcasts using the at least one auxiliary communication radio 138,bypassing the aircraft communication radio to transmit one or more radiosignals. The auxiliary com radio 138 is physically or wirelessly coupledto the smart aviation communication headset 100. Accordingly, theauxiliary com radio 138 can be physically integrated into the smartaviation communication headset 100 or can be integrated into aspeaker/microphone wire or link 137 associated with the smart aviationcommunication headset 100 or can be positioned in a flight bag,dashboard, seat, luggage compartment, or other location within a cabinof an aircraft. Alternatively, the auxiliary com radio 138 can bephysically installed within a panel or aircraft structure of anaircraft. The auxiliary com radio 138 can include a com antennaintegrated therewith or can be coupled to an exterior mounted comantenna for improved reception. The button 122 can be a soft button,switch, mechanical button, or a voice activated button. The auxiliarypush-to-talk button 122 is incorporated into an earcup, the armbanddisplay 139, or speaker/microphone cable or link 137 of the smartaviation communication headset 100. In certain embodiments, theauxiliary PTT button 122 can incorporate an fingerprint biometric reader140 for authentication purposes or the biometric reader 140 can beseparate and independent of the PTT button 122. Many operations anddetails of the auxiliary communication radio 138 are discussed herein.

In one embodiment, the earpiece insert device 150 includes aphysiological sensor 156, an earlobe receptacle 154, tension members152, a speaker 158, memory 160, a control unit 162, and/or a wirelesscommunication unit such as BLUETOOTH. The insert device 150 is separatefrom the headset 100 and is easily insertable and removable within theear cup cavities of a variety of aviation headsets 100 to monitor bloodoxygen, pulse, skin coloration, blood pressure, perspiration, and evenbodily temperature or other physiological measurements of a wearer andto output feedback information via the self-contained speaker 158 of theear lobe receptacle 154 or via the wireless communication unit to otherheadsets 100, the eyewear 120 or 121, or the armband display 139. In oneparticular embodiment, the physiological sensor 118 includes a pulseoximeter having a red LED and an infrared LED and at least one lightsensor tuned to red and infrared wavelengths (e.g., approximately 660 nmand 940 nm), collectively labeled 156, housed in a ear lobe receptacle154. The ear lobe receptacle 154 is formed from rubber, plastic,silicone, foam, or other soft malleable substrate or even rigidsubstrate, and is designed to accommodate an ear lobe. The ear lobereceptacle 154 can contain the ear lobe loosely, with a slight pressure,or with high pressure, such as using a clip, a channel, a slit, a gap,or a recess. The ear piece insert device 150 is insertable and removablewithin and on a bottom of the earcup of the headset 100 where thespeakers 112 are located. The tension members 152 are bent to permitinsertion of the device 150 within the earcup and then released to pressagainst internal walls of the earcup, thereby bracing the device 150within the earcup of the headset using tension. Although, it is possibleto wear the device 150 on an ear as a clip, to secure the device 150within the earpiece of the headset 100 using glue, adhesive, or afastener, or to incorporate the earpiece 150 as an integral part of theheadset 100 (e.g., the tension members 152 are optional in someembodiments). Thus, when the insert device 150 is installed/placed andthe headset 100 is donned, the ear lobe receptacle 154 is positioned toreceive and contain the ear lobe for blood oxygen concentration andpulse monitoring. Within the ear lobe receptacle 154 the red andinfrared LEDs are positioned on one side for interfacing with onesurface of an ear lobe and the at least one light sensor, collectivelylabeled 156, is positioned on the other side for interfacing with anopposite surface of the ear lobe. Light from the LEDs is transmittedthrough the ear lobe and detected by the at least one light sensor andthis information is communicated to the control unit 162 to determine alevel of absorbance, pulse, and/or the blood oxygen concentration.Feedback information regarding the pulse or the blood oxygen level isthen provided audible by the speakers 158 or visually via any of theaugmented reality eyewear 120, the virtual reality or synthetic visioneyewear 121, or the armband display 139. The feedback informationregarding the pulse and/or the blood oxygen level can also be used tocontrol the oxygen regulator 119 to dispense oxygen from the oxygensystem 116 via the cannula 117. In one particular embodiment, the earlobe receptacle 154 can include a plurality of LEDs (red/infrared) alonga length and a plurality of opposing light transducer/sensors along thelength to accommodate different sizes of ear lobes and to enhance thesampling of information using multiple measurement points from aroundthe ear lobe tip upward toward the back and even top of an ear. Thisfeature also accommodates non-perfect positioning of an ear lobe withinthe ear lobe receptacle 154. In certain embodiments, the insert device150 includes a microphone and the control unit 162 is operable toperform speech recognition on audio received and control operation ofthe device 150 based thereon. Thus, when the insert device 150 ispositioned within the earcup of the headset 100, the microphone 114 ofthe headset can be used to control operation of the insert device 150given that the speakers 112 output the audio spoken into the microphone114. Thus, despite the insert device 150 being acoustically isolated,the proximity to the speaker 112 can be used to pass audio commands tothe insert device 150 through the acoustic barrier formed by thecushions 164. Similarly, the microphone of the insert device 150 can beused to capture audio emitted via the speaker 112 of the headset 100,such audio can include ATC instructions, common traffic advisoryinformation, pilot-to-pilot communication, weather advisory, andintercom information. Upon receipt of the audio by the microphone, thecontrol unit 162 can perform speech recognition to the data and outputthe data wirelessly via the armband display 139 or the eyepieces120/121. For instance, ATC commands can be converted to text anddisplayed as instructions on the armband display 139, which can includeheading, altitude, speed, navigation, squawk code, radio frequency,navigation frequency, traffic advisory, or weather information. Inanother embodiment, the insert device 150 can be part of a collection ofinsert devices that can be paired, such as in a master-slaveconfiguration as supported by BLUETOOTH. This pairing enables the insertdevice 150 and the control unit 162 thereof to collect information fromone or more other insert devices 150 and to output that information viathe speaker 158, the eyepieces 120/121, or the armband display 139. Thisinformation can include other passenger's pulse, blood oxygen level, orother physiological data for review by a pilot or co-pilot. Many otherfunctions pertaining to the insert device 150 are disclosed herein.

In one embodiment, the replacement cushion device 164 includes cushion116, a microphone 173, an earlobe receptacle 168, a photosensor 172, anLED 170, a speaker 174, a physiological sensor 176, a camera 181, ahousing 180 containing control circuitry, memory, and/or a power supply,and a carbon monoxide detector 178. The replacement cushion device 164may include BLUETOOTH and/or can be linked wirelessly or wiredly to anarmband display 139, which armband display 139 can include any or all ofthe circuitry, memory, and/or power supply. The replacement cushiondevice 164 is adapted to snap/attach to an earcup 182 of an aviationcommunication headset 100 to replace the ‘dumb’ cushion 164 commonlypresent, to monitor blood oxygen, pulse, skin coloration, bloodpressure, perspiration, and even bodily temperature or otherphysiological measurements of a wearer and to output feedbackinformation via the self-contained speaker 174 of the replacementcushion device 164 or via wireless or wired communication to otherheadsets 100, other replacement cushion devices 164, the eyewear 120 or121, or the armband display 139. In one particular embodiment, thephysiological sensor includes a pulse oximeter having a red LED and aninfrared LED (together LED 170) and at least one light sensor 172 tunedto red and infrared wavelengths (e.g., approximately 660 nm and 940 nm)positioned in the ear lobe receptacle 168. The ear lobe receptacle 168is formed from rubber, plastic, silicone, foam, or other soft malleablesubstrate or even rigid substrate, and is designed to accommodate an earlobe. The receptacle 168 can be part of the cushion 166 or can include aseparate part or can be formed from the cushion 166 on one side and anopposing rigid, flexible, or soft backing. The ear lobe receptacle 168can contain the ear lobe loosely, with a slight pressure, or with highpressure, such as using a clip, a channel, a slit, a gap, or a recess.The cushion 166 can be soft and compressible material such as rubber,silicone rubber, foam, or the like. The physiological sensor 176 caninclude a temperature, skin coloration, chemical composition,perspiration, heart rate, or other type of sensor that can interfacedirectly with a temple or other skin surface of an individual. Thehousing 180 can be metal, plastic, composite or other similar materialand adapted to contain the circuitry, memory, battery, and/or wirelesscommunication device. The replacement cushion device 164 can include aflange, flap, lip, or the like to fit over and secure to a lip,impression, detent, protrusion or the like of the earcup 182. Thus, whenthe replacement cushion device 164 is installed and the headset 100 isdonned, the ear lobe receptacle 168 is positioned to receive and containthe ear lobe for blood oxygen concentration and pulse monitoring. Thered and infrared LEDs are positioned on one side for interfacing withone surface of an ear lobe and the at least one light sensor 172, ispositioned on the other side for interfacing with an opposite surface ofthe ear lobe. Light from the LEDs 170 is transmitted through the earlobe and detected by the at least one light sensor 172 and thisinformation is communicated to the control unit to determine a level ofabsorbance, pulse, and/or the blood oxygen concentration. Thephysiological sensor 176 and the carbon monoxide detector 178 cansimilarly be used to obtain data and pass the data to the control unit.Feedback information regarding the pulse or the blood oxygen level orcarbon monoxide levels or other physiological parameters is thenprovided audibly by the speaker 174 or visually via any of the augmentedreality eyewear 120, the virtual reality or synthetic vision eyewear121, or the armband display 139. The feedback information regarding thepulse and/or the blood oxygen level can also be used to control theoxygen regulator 119 to dispense oxygen from the oxygen system 116 viathe cannula 117. In one particular embodiment, the ear lobe receptacle168 can include a plurality of LEDs 170 (red/infrared) along a lengthand a plurality of opposing light transducer/sensors 172 along thelength to accommodate different sizes of ear lobes and to enhance thesampling of information using multiple measurement points from aroundthe ear lobe tip upward toward the back and even top of an ear. Thisfeature also accommodates non-perfect positioning of an ear lobe withinthe ear lobe receptacle 168. In certain embodiments, the replacementcushion device 164 includes a microphone 173 and the control unit isoperable to perform speech recognition on audio received and controloperation of the device 164 based thereon. Thus, when the replacementcushion device 164 is positioned on the earcup 182 of the headset 100,the microphone 114 of the headset can be used to control operation ofthe replacement cushion device 164 given that the speakers 112 outputthe audio spoken into the microphone 114. Thus, despite the earlobereceptacle 168 of the replacement cushion device 164 being acousticallyisolated by the cushion 166, the speaker 112 can be used to pass audiocommands through the acoustic barrier formed by the cushions 166 to thecontrol unit of the replacement cushion device 164. Similarly, themicrophone 178 can be used to capture audio emitted via the speaker 112of the headset 100, such audio can include ATC instructions, commontraffic advisory information, pilot-to-pilot communication, weatheradvisory, and intercom information. Upon receipt of the audio, by themicrophone 178, the control unit of the replacement cushion 164 canperform speech recognition to the data and output the data via thearmband display 139 or the eyepieces 120/121. For instance, ATC commandscan be converted to text and displayed as instructions on the armbanddisplay 139, which can include heading, altitude, speed, navigation,squawk code, radio frequency, navigation frequency, traffic advisory, orweather information. In another embodiment, the replacement cushiondevice 164 can be part of a collection of replacement cushion devicesthat can be paired, such as in a master-slave configuration as supportedby BLUETOOTH. This pairing enables the replacement cushion device 164and the control unit thereof to collect information from one or moreother replacement cushion devices 164 and to output that information viathe speaker 174, the eyepieces 120/121, or the armband display 139. Thisinformation can include other passenger's pulse, blood oxygen level, orother physiological data for review by a pilot or co-pilot. Many otherfunctions pertaining to the replacement cushion device 164 are disclosedherein. In certain embodiments, the replacement cushion device 164 canbe integrated with the headset 100.

In one embodiment, the earclip device 184 includes clip 186 having anLED 188, photosensor 190, microphone 100, and speaker 192. The clip 186is coupled via a wire to housing 194 having an attachment band 198 and acarbon monoxide detector 196. The housing 194 includes controlcircuitry, memory, and/or a power supply. In certain embodiments, thehousing 194 further includes a display screen. The housing 194 mayinclude BLUETOOTH. The clip 186 is adapted to clip to an earlobe tomonitor blood oxygen, pulse, skin coloration, blood pressure,perspiration, and even bodily temperature or other physiologicalmeasurements of a wearer and to output feedback information via theself-contained speaker 192 of the clip 186 or via wireless or wiredcommunication to other headsets 100, other clips 186, the eyewear 120 or121, the armband display 139, or a display incorporated in the housing194. In one particular embodiment, the physiological sensor includes apulse oximeter having a red LED and an infrared LED (together LED 188)and at least one light sensor 190 tuned to red and infrared wavelengths(e.g., approximately 660 nm and 940 nm). The clip 186 can contain theear lobe loosely, with a slight pressure, or with high pressure. Theclip 186 can be soft and compressible material such as rubber, siliconerubber, foam, or the like. The clip 186 can include a physiologicalsensor of temperature, skin coloration, chemical composition,perspiration, heart rate, or other type of sensor that can interfacedirectly with a skin surface of an individual. The housing 194 can bemetal, plastic, composite or other similar material and adapted tocontain the circuitry, memory, battery, and/or wireless communicationdevice. Thus, when the clip 186 attached to an earlobe and the headset100 is donned, the clip 186 is positioned to receive and contain the earlobe for blood oxygen concentration and pulse monitoring. The red andinfrared LEDs 188 are positioned on one side for interfacing with onesurface of an ear lobe and the at least one light sensor 190 ispositioned on the other side for interfacing with an opposite surface ofthe ear lobe. Light from the LEDs 188 is transmitted through the earlobe and detected by the at least one light sensor 190 and thisinformation is communicated to the control unit to determine a level ofabsorbance, pulse, and/or the blood oxygen concentration. Thephysiological sensor and the carbon monoxide detector 196 can similarlybe used to obtain data and pass the data to the control unit. Feedbackinformation regarding the pulse or the blood oxygen level or carbonmonoxide levels or other physiological parameters is then providedaudibly by the speaker 192 or visually via any of the augmented realityeyewear 120, the virtual reality or synthetic vision eyewear 121, thearmband display 139, or an integrated display in the housing 194. Thefeedback information regarding the pulse and/or the blood oxygen levelcan also be used to control the oxygen regulator 119 to dispense oxygenfrom the oxygen system 116 via the cannula 117. In certain embodiments,the clip 186 includes a microphone 114 and the control unit is operableto perform speech recognition on audio received and control operation ofthe clip 184 based thereon. Thus, when the clip 186 is positioned withinthe earcup of the headset 100, the microphone 114 of the headset can beused to control operation of the clip 186 given that the speakers 112output the audio spoken into the microphone 114. Thus, despite the clip186 being acoustically isolated by the cushion 164, the speaker 112 canbe used to pass audio commands through the acoustic barrier formed bythe cushions 164 to the control unit of the clip 186. Similarly, themicrophone 114 can be used to capture audio emitted via the speaker 112of the headset 100, such audio can include ATC instructions, commontraffic advisory information, pilot-to-pilot communication, weatheradvisory, and intercom information. Upon receipt of the audio, by themicrophone 114, the control unit of the clip 186 can perform speechrecognition to the data and output the data via the armband display 139or the eyepieces 120/121 or an integrated display of the housing 194.For instance, ATC commands can be converted to text and displayed asinstructions on the armband display 139, which can include heading,altitude, speed, navigation, squawk code, radio frequency, navigationfrequency, traffic advisory, or weather information. In anotherembodiment, the clip 186 can be part of a collection of replacementcushion devices that can be paired, such as in a master-slaveconfiguration as supported by BLUETOOTH. This pairing enables the clip186 and the control unit thereof to collect information from one or moreother clips 186 and to output that information via the speaker 192, theeyepieces 120/121, the armband display 139, or integrated display of thehousing 194. This information can include other passenger's pulse, bloodoxygen level, or other physiological data for review by a pilot orco-pilot. Many other functions pertaining to the clip 186 are disclosedherein. In certain embodiments, the clip 186 can be integrated with theheadset 100.

In one embodiment, the earcup attachment device 202 includes amicrophone 206, an earlobe receptacle 208, a photosensor 210, an LED212, a speaker 214, a physiological sensor 203, a housing 212 containingcontrol circuitry, memory, and/or a power supply, a carbon monoxidedetector 205, and a field of view camera 207. The earcup attachmentdevice 202 may include BLUETOOTH and/or can be linked wirelessly orwiredly to an armband display 139, which armband display 139 can includeany or all of the circuitry, memory, and/or power supply. The earcupattachment device 202 is adapted to snap/attach to an earcup 214 of anaviation communication headset 100 and the ‘dumb’ cushion 204 is thenslipped over the earcup attachment device 202. Thus the earcupattachment device 202 interfaces between the aviation communicationheadset earcup 214 and the existing cushion 204 to monitor blood oxygen,pulse, skin coloration, blood pressure, perspiration, and even bodilytemperature or other physiological measurements of a wearer and tooutput feedback information via the self-contained speaker 214 of theearcup attachment device 202 or via wireless or wired communication toother headsets 100, other earcup attachment devices 202, the eyewear 120or 121, or the armband display 139. In one particular embodiment, thephysiological sensor includes a pulse oximeter having a red LED and aninfrared LED (together LED 212) and at least one light sensor 210 tunedto red and infrared wavelengths (e.g., approximately 660 nm and 940 nm)positioned in the ear lobe receptacle 208. The ear lobe receptacle 208is formed from rubber, plastic, silicone, foam, or other soft malleablesubstrate or even rigid substrate, and is designed to accommodate an earlobe. The receptacle 208 can include a separate part or can be formedfrom the cushion 204 on one side and an opposing rigid, flexible, orsoft backing. The ear lobe receptacle 208 can contain the ear lobeloosely, with a slight pressure, or with high pressure, such as using aclip, a channel, a slit, a gap, or a recess. The physiological sensor203 can include a temperature, skin coloration, chemical composition,perspiration, heart rate, or other type of sensor that can interfacedirectly with a temple or other skin surface of an individual. Thehousing 234 can be metal, plastic, composite or other similar materialand adapted to contain the circuitry, memory, battery, and/or wirelesscommunication device. The earcup attachment device 202 can include aflange, flap, lip, or the like to fit over and secure to a lip,impression, detent, protrusion or the like of the earcup 214. Thus, whenthe earcup attachment device 202 is installed and the headset 100 isdonned, the ear lobe receptacle 208 is positioned to receive and containthe ear lobe for blood oxygen concentration and pulse monitoring. Thered and infrared LEDs 212 are positioned on one side for interfacingwith one surface of an ear lobe and the at least one light sensor 210,is positioned on the other side for interfacing with an opposite surfaceof the ear lobe. Light from the LEDs 212 is transmitted through the earlobe and detected by the at least one light sensor 210 and thisinformation is communicated to the control unit to determine a level ofabsorbance, pulse, and/or the blood oxygen concentration. Thephysiological sensor 203 and the carbon monoxide detector 205 cansimilarly be used to obtain data and pass the data to the control unit.Feedback information regarding the pulse or the blood oxygen level orcarbon monoxide levels or other physiological parameters is thenprovided audibly by the speaker 214 or visually via any of the augmentedreality eyewear 120, the virtual reality or synthetic vision eyewear121, or the armband display 139. The feedback information regarding thepulse and/or the blood oxygen level can also be used to control theoxygen regulator 119 to dispense oxygen from the oxygen system 116 viathe cannula 117. In one particular embodiment, the ear lobe receptacle208 can include a plurality of LEDs 212 (red/infrared) along a lengthand a plurality of opposing light transducer/sensors 210 along thelength to accommodate different sizes of ear lobes and to enhance thesampling of information using multiple measurement points from aroundthe ear lobe tip upward toward the back and even top of an ear. Thisfeature also accommodates non-perfect positioning of an ear lobe withinthe ear lobe receptacle 208. In certain embodiments, the earcupattachment device 202 includes a microphone 206 and the control unit isoperable to perform speech recognition on audio received and controloperation of the device 202 based thereon. Thus, when the r earcupattachment device 202 is positioned on the earcup 214 of the headset100, the microphone 206 of the headset can be used to control operationof the earcup attachment device 202 given that the speakers 112 outputthe audio spoken into the microphone 114. Thus, despite the earlobereceptacle 208 of the earcup attachment device 202 being acousticallyisolated by the cushion 204, the speaker 112 can be used to pass audiocommands through the acoustic barrier formed by the cushions 204 to thecontrol unit of the earcup attachment device 202. Similarly, themicrophone 206 can be used to capture audio emitted via the speaker 112of the headset 100, such audio can include ATC instructions, commontraffic advisory information, pilot-to-pilot communication, weatheradvisory, and intercom information. Upon receipt of the audio, by themicrophone 206, the control unit of the earcup attachment device 202 canperform speech recognition to the data and output the data via thearmband display 139 or the eyepieces 120/121. For instance, ATC commandscan be converted to text and displayed as instructions on the armbanddisplay 139, which can include heading, altitude, speed, navigation,squawk code, radio frequency, navigation frequency, traffic advisory, orweather information. In another embodiment, the earcup attachment device202 can be part of a collection of earcup attachment devices 202 thatcan be paired, such as in a master-slave configuration as supported byBLUETOOTH. This pairing enables the earcup attachment device 202 and thecontrol unit thereof to collect information from one or more otherearcup attachment devices 202 and to output that information via thespeaker 214, the eyepieces 120/121, or the armband display 139. Thisinformation can include other passenger's pulse, blood oxygen level, orother physiological data for review by a pilot or co-pilot. Many otherfunctions pertaining to the earcup attachment device 202 are disclosedherein. In certain embodiments, the earcup attachment device 202 can beintegrated with the headset 100.

In one embodiment, the replacement cushion device 216 includes cushion218, a microphone 220, an earlobe receptacle 222, a photosensor 224, anLED 226, a speaker 228, a physiological sensor 230, a housing 234containing control circuitry, memory, and/or a power supply, a carbonmonoxide detector 236, a field of view camera 232, and a heads-updisplay 240. The replacement cushion device 216 may include BLUETOOTHand/or can be linked wirelessly or wiredly to an armband display 139,which armband display 139 can include any or all of the circuitry,memory, and/or power supply. The replacement cushion device 216 isadapted to snap/attach to an earcup 238 of an aviation communicationheadset 100 to replace the ‘dumb’ cushion 164 commonly present, tomonitor blood oxygen, pulse, skin coloration, blood pressure,perspiration, and even bodily temperature or other physiologicalmeasurements of a wearer and to output feedback information via theself-contained speaker 228 or the heads-up display 240 of thereplacement cushion device 216 or via wireless or wired communication toother headsets 100, other replacement cushion devices 216, the eyewear120 or 121, or the armband display 139. In one particular embodiment,the physiological sensor includes a pulse oximeter having a red LED andan infrared LED (together LED 226) and at least one light sensor 224tuned to red and infrared wavelengths (e.g., approximately 660 nm and940 nm) positioned in the ear lobe receptacle 222. The ear lobereceptacle 222 is formed from rubber, plastic, silicone, foam, or othersoft malleable substrate or even rigid substrate, and is designed toaccommodate an ear lobe. The receptacle 222 can be part of the cushion218 or can include a separate part or can be formed from the cushion 218on one side and an opposing rigid, flexible, or soft backing. The earlobe receptacle 222 can contain the ear lobe loosely, with a slightpressure, or with high pressure, such as using a clip, a channel, aslit, a gap, or a recess. The cushion 218 can be soft and compressiblematerial such as rubber, silicone rubber, foam, or the like. Thephysiological sensor 230 can include a temperature, skin coloration,chemical composition, perspiration, heart rate, or other type of sensorthat can interface directly with a temple or other skin surface of anindividual. The housing 234 can be metal, plastic, composite or othersimilar material and adapted to contain the circuitry, memory, battery,and/or wireless communication device. The replacement cushion device 216can include a flange, flap, lip, or the like to fit over and secure to alip, impression, detent, protrusion or the like of the earcup 238. Thus,when the replacement cushion device 216 is installed and the headset 100is donned, the ear lobe receptacle 222 is positioned to receive andcontain the ear lobe for blood oxygen concentration and pulsemonitoring. The red and infrared LEDs 226 are positioned on one side forinterfacing with one surface of an ear lobe and the at least one lightsensor 224, is positioned on the other side for interfacing with anopposite surface of the ear lobe. Light from the LEDs 226 is transmittedthrough the ear lobe and detected by the at least one light sensor 224and this information is communicated to the control unit to determine alevel of absorbance, pulse, and/or the blood oxygen concentration. Thephysiological sensor 230 and the carbon monoxide detector 236 cansimilarly be used to obtain data and pass the data to the control unit.Feedback information regarding the pulse or the blood oxygen level orcarbon monoxide levels or other physiological parameters is thenprovided audibly by the speaker 238 or visually via the heads-up display240 or any of the augmented reality eyewear 120, the virtual reality orsynthetic vision eyewear 121, or the armband display 139. The feedbackinformation regarding the pulse and/or the blood oxygen level can alsobe used to control the oxygen regulator 119 to dispense oxygen from theoxygen system 116 via the cannula 117. In one particular embodiment, theear lobe receptacle 222 can include a plurality of LEDs 226(red/infrared) along a length and a plurality of opposing lighttransducer/sensors 224 along the length to accommodate different sizesof ear lobes and to enhance the sampling of information using multiplemeasurement points from around the ear lobe tip upward toward the backand even top of an ear. This feature also accommodates non-perfectpositioning of an ear lobe within the ear lobe receptacle 222. Incertain embodiments, the replacement cushion device 216 includes amicrophone 220 and the control unit is operable to perform speechrecognition on audio received and control operation of the device 216based thereon. Thus, when the replacement cushion device 216 ispositioned on the earcup 238 of the headset 100, the microphone 220 ofthe headset can be used to control operation of the replacement cushiondevice 216 given that the speakers 112 output the audio spoken into themicrophone 114. Thus, despite the earlobe receptacle 222 of thereplacement cushion device 216 being acoustically isolated by thecushion 218, the speaker 112 can be used to pass audio commands throughthe acoustic barrier formed by the cushions 218 to the control unit ofthe replacement cushion device 216. Similarly, the microphone 220 can beused to capture audio emitted via the speaker 112 of the headset 100,such audio can include ATC instructions, common traffic advisoryinformation, pilot-to-pilot communication, weather advisory, andintercom information. Upon receipt of the audio, by the microphone 220,the control unit of the replacement cushion 216 can perform speechrecognition to the data and output the data via the heads-up display240, the armband display 139, or the eyepieces 120/121. For instance,ATC commands can be converted to text and displayed as instructions onthe heads-up display 240, the armband display 139, which can includeheading, altitude, speed, navigation, squawk code, radio frequency,navigation frequency, traffic advisory, or weather information. Inanother embodiment, the replacement cushion device 216 can be part of acollection of replacement cushion devices 216 that can be paired, suchas in a master-slave configuration as supported by BLUETOOTH. Thispairing enables the replacement cushion device 216 and the control unitthereof to collect information from one or more other replacementcushion devices 216 and to output that information via the heads-updisplay 240, the speaker 228, the eyepieces 120/121, or the armbanddisplay 139. This information can include other passenger's pulse, bloodoxygen level, or other physiological data for review by a pilot orco-pilot. Many other functions pertaining to the replacement cushiondevice 216 are disclosed herein. In certain embodiments, the replacementcushion device 216 can be integrated with the headset 100.

FIG. 2 is a systems diagram of a smart aviation communication headsetsystem 100 in communication with aircraft systems and electronic flightaccessories, in accordance with various embodiments of the invention. Asmart aviation communication headset system 100, can include any of thecomponents of FIG. 1, such as the following components: control unit106, computer memory with executable instructions 108, wirelesscommunication unit 110, speakers 112, microphone 114, DC power 104,oxygen system 216, built-in physiological monitoring system 218,physiological monitoring earcup insert system 250, augmented realitysystem 220, virtual reality system 221, auxiliary com radio system 238,and automated co-pilot system 270. Not all of the foregoing componentsare required to be included within the smart aviation communicationheadset system 100. Likewise, additional components may be presentwithin the smart aviation communication headset system 100. Moreover,any of the foregoing components can be physically separate from thesmart aviation communication headset system 100, physically integratedwithin the smart aviation communication headset 100, or electronicallyor communicably coupled to the smart aviation communication headset 100via one or more wires or a wireless connection.

The control unit 106 operates in conjunction with the computer memory108 to execute the executable instructions to perform operationsdisclosed herein. The control unit 106 can include hardware or softwareor be a combination of the two. For instance, the control unit 106 canbe ARDUINO or ATMEGA or RASBERRY PI or INTEL or equivalent.

The DC power 104 can include a portable battery (e.g., 3.5V-12 volt) ora linkage to the aircraft power supply (e.g., 12 volt or 24 volt).

The wireless communication unit 110 is a wireless transmitter and/orwireless receiver that communicates using various protocols. Forexample, the wireless communication unit can enable BLUETOOTHconnectivity or other similar communication link with any of theaircraft systems 202, any of the electronic flight accessories 204, theoxygen system 216, the physiological earcup insert system 250, theaugmented reality system 220, the virtual reality system 221, or theauxiliary com radio system 238.

The speakers 112 include earbud, earplug, earcup, or earmuff typespeakers such as those found with typical headsets like those offeredthrough BOSE, LIGHTSPEED, or DAVID CLARK. Similarly, the microphone 114includes a boom-mounted type microphone also found with typical headsetsoffered through BOSE, LIGHTSPEED, or DAVID CLARK. The speakers 112 canbe used for intercom and radio communication as well as to output soundfor voice control of the earcup insert system 250. The microphone 114can be used for intercom and radio communication as well as to controland interact via speech the functionality of the earcup insert system250, the oxygen system 216, the built-in physiological monitoring system218, the augmented reality system 220, the virtual reality system 221,the auxiliary com radio system 238, and/or the automated co-pilot system270.

The oxygen system 216 dispenses oxygen from the container 172 via thedispenser mask or cannula 117 for consumption in accordance with theregulator 119 and any control unit 106 software instructions. Thecontrol unit 106 can adjust the regulator based on instructions receivedvia a physical user interface or a voice controlled interface to enableadjustment of the flow of oxygen (e.g., adjust the flow or concentrationof oxygen based on commands received via the microphone 114, theavionics 258, or any of the electronic flight accessories 204). Thecontrol unit 106 can also adjust the regulator automatically based onGPS attitude, density altitude, ambient oxygen levels, or based onmeasurements obtained from the physiological sensor 118 (e.g., bloodoxygen level, pulse, heart rate, coloration) or sensor(s) that measurethe flow or concentration of oxygen. The quantity and flowcharacteristics of oxygen can be measured by the sensor(s) andcommunicated to the control unit 106 or for user output via the speakers112 or the augmented/virtual reality eyewear 120 or via the avionics 258or any of the electronic flight accessories 204.

The built-in physiological monitoring system 218 monitors one or morephysical parameters of an individual via the sensors 118 using thecontrol unit 106 and analyzes and outputs the information associatedwith the physical parameters. Information obtained from thephysiological sensors 118 can be communicated to the avionics 258 or anyof the electronic flight accessories 204 or output via the speakers 112or the augmented/virtual reality eyewear 120, 121 for monitoring.Information from the physiological sensor 118 can also be used by thecontrol unit 106 to adjust one or more components of the smart aviationcommunication headset system 100, the aircraft systems 202, or theelectronic flight accessories 204. For instance, the oxygen regulator119 can be controlled based on information from the physiologicalsensors 118 (e.g., low blood oxygen level can result in increased oxygenoutput). Likewise, the avionics 258, the navigation unit 248, thetransponder 252, the autopilot 254, the ELT 270, or the smartphone ortablet 274 can be controlled based on information from the physiologicalsensors 118. For instance, a low oxygen level detected can trigger awarning via the speakers 112, initiation of oxygen flow via theregulator 119, a descent to a lower altitude via the navigation unit 248and the autopilot 254, a mayday or pan pan call via the radio 250,setting of 7700 on the transponder 252, emergency transmission via 121.5via the ELT 270, or a phone call to a family member or ATC via thesmartphone 274. Thus, information from the physiological sensors 118 canbe used to monitor attribute(s) of a user, provide alerts of values thatdeviate from normal or expected ranges, and, in the event of anemergency condition, result in automated actions being taken throughvarious components to address any detected condition.

The physiological monitoring earcup insert system 250 monitors one ormore physical parameters of an individual via the sensors 156 using thecontrol unit 160 and analyzes and outputs the information associatedwith the physical parameters. Information obtained from thephysiological sensors 118 can be communicated to wearer using thespeaker 158. In certain embodiments, the insert system 250 is wired orwirelessly linked with the headset 100, the avionics 258, any of theelectronic flight accessories 204. Health data may therefore also beoutput via the avionics 258, the accessories 204, the speakers 112, orthe augmented/virtual reality eyewear 120, 121. Information from thephysiological sensor 156 can also be used by the control unit 106 toadjust one or more components of the smart aviation communicationheadset system 100, the aircraft systems 202, or the electronic flightaccessories 204. For instance, the oxygen regulator 119 can becontrolled based on information from the physiological sensors 156(e.g., low blood oxygen level can result in increased oxygen output).Likewise, the avionics 258, the navigation unit 248, the transponder252, the autopilot 254, the ELT 270, or the smartphone or tablet 274 canbe controlled based on information from the physiological sensors 156.For instance, a low oxygen level detected can trigger a warning via thespeakers 112, initiation of oxygen flow via the regulator 119, a descentto a lower altitude via the navigation unit 248 and the autopilot 254, amayday or pan pan call via the radio 250, setting of 7700 on thetransponder 252, emergency transmission via 121.5 via the ELT 270, or aphone call to a family member or ATC via the smartphone 274. Thus,information from the physiological sensors 118 can be used to monitorattribute(s) of a user, provide alerts of values that deviate fromnormal or expected ranges, and, in the event of an emergency condition,result in automated actions being taken through various components toaddress any detected condition.

The augmented reality system 220 of the communication headset system 100enables enhanced functionality to occur. For instance, the eyewear 120can communicate with the control unit 106 to obtain information such asmicrophone 114 and speaker 112 speech-to-text converted information fordisplay, oxygen system 116 status information, physiological sensor 118information, oxygen sensor 128 and carbon monoxide sensor 142information, as well as information from any of the aircraft systems 202or the electronic flight accessories 204. Additionally, the eyewear 120can communicate with the control unit 106 to provide information foroutput via the speakers 112, the auxiliary com radio 138, any of theaircraft systems 202, or any of the electronic flight accessories 204.Furthermore, the eyewear 120 can be commanded using information from themicrophone 114, the physiological sensor 118, the biometric sensor 140,any of the aircraft systems 202, or any of the electronic flightaccessories 204. Likewise, the control unit 106 can be commanded withinformation obtained from the eyewear 120, such as gaze trackinginformation or field of view information. As an example, the eyewear 120can output ATC commands received via the radio 250 or the auxiliaryradio 138 as text, navigation pathways or boxes using information froman aircraft panel mounted certified GPS 264,heading/altitude/speed/minimum bug information obtained from an aircraftnavigation system 248, oxygen/carbon monoxide level information obtainedfrom a sensor 128, body temperature or oxygen level information obtainedfrom a sensor 118 or 156, traffic and weather information obtained froma ADS-B receiver 260, mismatch/inconsistent avionics/engine/systeminformation from a camera 170 with an aircraft-panel field of view.Likewise, as further examples the speakers 112 can output informationbeing displayed on the eyewear 120 or detected by a camera 126associated with the eyewear, such as an alert about traffic within afield of view, flight visibility being below or above a specifiedthreshold, an upcoming runway, taxiway, airport, or navaid, or amismatch between viewed or displayed information and received ATCinstructions.

The virtual reality system 221 of the communication headset system 100enables enhanced functionality to occur. For instance, the eyewear 121can communicate with the control unit 106 to obtain information such asmicrophone 114 and speaker 112 speech-to-text converted information fordisplay, oxygen system 116 status information, physiological sensor 118information, oxygen sensor 128 and carbon monoxide sensor 142information, as well as information from any of the aircraft systems 202or the electronic flight accessories 204. Additionally, the eyewear 121can communicate with the control unit 106 to provide information foroutput via the speakers 112, the auxiliary com radio 138, any of theaircraft systems 202, or any of the electronic flight accessories 204.Furthermore, the eyewear 120 can be commanded using information from themicrophone 114, the physiological sensor 118, the biometric sensor 140,any of the aircraft systems 202, or any of the electronic flightaccessories 204. Likewise, the control unit 106 can be commanded withinformation obtained from the eyewear 121, such as gaze trackinginformation or eye focus information. As an example, the eyewear 121 canoutput ATC commands received via the radio 250 or the auxiliary radio138 as text, navigation pathways or boxes using information from anaircraft panel mounted certified GPS 264, heading/altitude/speed/minimumbug information obtained from an aircraft navigation system 248,oxygen/carbon monoxide level information obtained from a sensor 128,body temperature or oxygen level information obtained from a sensor 118or 156, traffic and weather information obtained from a ADS-B receiver260, mismatch/inconsistent avionics/engine/system information from acamera 170 with an aircraft-panel field of view. Likewise, as furtherexamples the speakers 112 can output information being displayed on theeyewear 121 or detected by a camera 129 associated with the eyewear,such as an alert about traffic within a field of view, flight visibilitybeing below or above a specified threshold, an upcoming runway, taxiway,airport, or navaid, or a mismatch between viewed or displayedinformation and received ATC instructions.

The auxiliary com radio system 238 enables smart radio control andfunctionality using an independent communication radio 138 that isseparate from an aircraft integrated communication radio 250. Theauxiliary push-to-talk button 122 controls transmission using theauxiliary radio 138. When depressed or activated, the PTT button 122causes voice information received from the microphone 114 to betransmitted using the auxiliary com radio 138, thereby bypassing anyaircraft radio 250 for transmission of a radio broadcast. The auxiliarycom radio system 238 therefore enables enhanced functionality of thesmart aviation communication headset 100. For example, the auxiliary comradio 138 can accept and process voice commands to appropriatefrequencies, accept and perform relay broadcast operations, auto-tune todesired frequencies, record and perform iterative broadcasts overdifferent local frequencies, or perform speech-to-text conversions.Communications received via the auxiliary com radio system 238 can beoutput via the speakers 112. Moreover, the control unit 106 can performspeech recognition with respect to signals received via the auxiliarycom radio 138 for graphical and/or textual output via the augmentedeyewear 120, the virtual reality goggles 121, the avionics 258, and/orany of the electronic flight accessories 204.

The automated co-pilot system 270 enables visual monitoring of aircraftsystems 202, detection of discrepancies or problems, alerts, andresolution functionality.

For instance, the field of view camera 170 can obtain images of theaircraft avionics 258 including engine, propeller, fuel, electrical,and/or flight instruments and the control unit 106 can process theimages to detect discrepancies or issues. Such issues can includeinconsistent readings between cross-check instruments, below or abovethreshold readings, and/or unexpected changes in readings over time.Additionally, the field of view camera 170 can obtain images of theexternal aircraft environment and the control unit 106 can process thoseimages to detect environmental issues. Such issues can includevisibility below or above a specified threshold, cloud proximity, cloudceiling values, or icing conditions. The control unit 106 can useinformation obtained from a field of view camera 126 or 129, as neededor if such information is available. Any detected issues, discrepancies,or notification information generated by the control unit 106 can beoutput for evaluation such as via the speakers 112, the eyewear 120/121,the avionics 258, or any of the electronic flight accessories.

The aircraft systems 202 can include navigation unit 248, radio 250,transponder 252, autopilot 254, intercom 256, avionics 258, ADS-Btransmitter/receiver 260, GPS unit 264, ADAHRS or AHRS 266, or ELT 270.Examples of such devices are provided through GARMIN, DYNON, STRATUS,BENDIX KING, and MID-CONTINENTAL—for example. The aircraft systems 202can be wired or wirelessly linked with the smart aviation communicationheadset 100. The electronic flight accessories 204 can include asmartwatch 272, a tablet/smartphone 274, an electronic display visor276, and an electronic display kneeboard 278. The smartwatch 272 and thesmartphone/tablet 274 can include those devices available from GARMIN,SAMSUNG, APPLE, MICROSOFT, GOOGLE, AMAZON, LG, or FACEBOOK, for example.The electronic display visor 276 is a visor similar in appearance to aROSEN type visor with the added functionality of a display screen, suchas an electrophoretic, OLED, LED, or twist ball display or a see-throughdisplay. The electronic display kneeboard 278 is a kneeboard commonlyworn by pilots with the added functionality of a display screen, such asan electrophoretic, twistball, OLED, or LED display. Any of the aircraftsystems 202 or the electronic flight accessories 204 can be wirelesslylinked (or wiredly linked) with the smart aviation communication headset100 such as using BLUETOOTH. Such linkage enables enhancedfunctionalities involving the smart aviation communication headset 100.For example, text converted from speech ATC instructions can bedisplayed on the electronic display visor 276, commands oracknowledgements entered (e.g., via touch or buttons) on the electronicdisplay kneeboard 278 or the electronic avionics 258 or the navigationunit 248 can be transmitted via the auxiliary com radio 138, trafficidentified via the ADS-B receiver 260 can be used to highlight trafficin the field of view of the augmented/virtual reality eyewear 120, relayrequests from the auxiliary com radio 138 can be provided via thesmartwatch 272, or speech data received via the radio 250 can be outputas text on the augmented/virtual reality eyewear 120. Many additionalfeatures involving the linkage between the aircraft systems 202 and theelectronic flight accessories 204 and the smart aviation communicationheadset system 100 and headset 100 are discussed herein.

FIG. 3 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 306; and outputting aviationflight information via the one or more docks for display on the one ormore eyepieces at 308. For example, the eyepiece can be removed when notneeded or desired and then docked when needed or desired. Also, variouseyepieces can be used interchangeably. This enables use of syntheticvision or augmented reality or enhanced vision goggles interchangeably.Once docked, the presence of the eyepiece is detected and flightinformation can automatically be output for display. The flightinformation can include speech-to-text air traffic control (ATC)instructions, speech-to-text communication information, oxygen level orflow, physiological sensor information, blood oxygen or pulseinformation, ambient oxygen or carbon monoxide information, ADS-Btraffic or weather information, heading information, GPS information,attitude, heading, pitch information, orientation or movementinformation, any information received from communication with theaircraft systems, or any information received from electronic flightaccessories. Furthermore, when one of the eyepieces is docked flightinformation can be communicated from the eyepiece for output, whichoutput can be audible via the one or more speakers or a to any of theaircraft systems or any of the electronic flight accessories. Forexample, the following information can be communicated: user gazetracking information regarding an object of focus or camera detectedradio frequency or camera detected instrument status or information ordetermined information about an object such as airport. Additionally, abiometric sensor can be used to identify a wearer and/or calibratefunctions, such as tailor the flight information communicated anddisplayed (e.g. VFR only information for non-IFR pilots, IFR informationfor IFR pilots, non-technical scenic information for non-pilots, etc).

FIG. 4 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 406; providing synthetic visionincluding at least one synthetic image associated with at least onefield of view via the one or more eyepieces at 308; and overlaying atleast one of the following information over the at least one syntheticimage: airspeed, groundspeed, true airspeed, indicated airspeed,heading, course, glideslope, attitude, turn coordination, altitude,heading bug, altitude bug, airspeed bug, climb or descent rate, climb ordescent rate bug, communication information, navigation information,wind, highway-in-the-sky information, airspace, wind information, CDIinformation, HIS information, engine monitoring, angle of attack, ortemperature at 410. For example, a pilot can be flying visually underVFR (visual flight rules) without use of any eyepieces. However, upontransitioning to IFR (instrument flight rules) or entering IMC(instrument meteorological conditions), the pilot can couple thesynthetic vision goggles to the aviation communication headset. Upondoing so, the synthetic vision goggles are detected and the syntheticvision imagery is transmitted and displayed via the synthetic visiongoggles. The use of the synthetic vision goggles can thereby supplementor replace panel mounted synthetic vision systems. Note that thesynthetic vision goggles may also be docked during VFR or VMC (visualmeteorological conditions) as desired.

FIG. 5 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 506; providing synthetic visionincluding at least one synthetic image associated with at least oneforward field of view via the one or more eyepieces at 508; overlayinginstrument information over the at least one synthetic image associatedwith the at least one forward field of view of the one or more eyepiecesat 510; and providing at least one other synthetic image associated witha different field of view in response to movement of the one or moreeyepieces while maintaining an apparent forward position of theinstrument information at 512. For example, the synthetic vision gogglescan provide a synthetic view of reality from the current position andhead orientation of a pilot. However, as the pilot turns his or herhead, some of the critical or otherwise desired instrument informationwill remain overlaid in the field of view. Thus, as the pilot looksforward, a synthetic forward view of reality is provided. However, asthe pilot turns left or right or up or down or backwards, the syntheticview will change to correspond with the new orientation. This featureenables the pilot to explore not just in the forward direction thattracks the movement of the plane, but also other areas that surround thepilot. As an example, the pilot may be flying in a valley surrounded bymountainous terrain and the synthetic vision goggles will enable thepilot to view synthetic reality of the valley as well as the mountainsmerely by turning his or her head. This simulates actual free vision inthree-dimensional space. However, despite the synthetic reality beingfluid, some of the flight instrument information is desired to remainwithin the field of view regardless of the pilot's head orientation.This flight information can include airspeed, traffic warnings, angle ofattack information, altitude, engine information, or other similarcritical information. The information that remains static can becustomized or based on default values.

FIG. 6 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 606; providing synthetic visionincluding at least one synthetic image associated with at least oneforward field of view via the one or more eyepieces at 608; overlayinginstrument information over the at least one synthetic image associatedwith the at least one forward field of view of the one or more eyepiecesat 610; stitching together at least one other synthetic image associatedwith a different field of view in response to movement of the one ormore eyepieces at 612; and maintaining an apparent forward position ofat least some of the instrument information while moving at least someof the instrument information over the at least one other syntheticimage at 614. For example, upon docking the synthetic vision goggles tothe headset, the synthetic view of reality can be displayed. Asdiscussed previously, the synthetic reality can be untethered to themovement or direction of the plane enabling free exploration ofthree-dimensional space based on head movement and orientation of thepilot. Some flight information can be anchored in view independently ofchanges in synthetic vision content. However, some of the flightinformation can be anchored to a forward field of view that tracks themovement of the aircraft. This anchoring of flight information candeclutter certain information from the field of view during syntheticreality exploration and also assist in providing a cue to the pilot asto the forward direction of flight. The anchored flight information caninclude avionics information such as altimeter information, turncoordination, heading and track information, highway in the skyindications, or other similar flight information. The anchored andfloating flight information can be user selected, customized, or basedon default values. In certain embodiments, indicators are provided inthe field of view that direct or point back to a forward orientationthat corresponds to the track of the aircraft to further aid insituational awareness.

FIG. 7 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 706 and providing at least one 3Dvirtual world by stitching together one or more synthetic imagescorresponding to at least one field of view of the one or more eyepiecessuch that movement of the one or more eyepieces results in at least onesynthetic image that corresponds to position and orientation of the oneor more eyepieces at 708. For example, with the synthetic gogglesdocked, the synthetic images can be output to the display in a mannerthat corresponds to a position of the pilot in space and to theorientation of a head of the pilot. As the synthetic goggles are turnedleft, right, up, down, backwards, sideways, downwards, the imagesprovided correspond to the view of reality from that position andorientation. As movement is detected in a certain direction ororientation, images for that orientation and/or future anticipatedorientations can be loaded, cued, or buffered to enable a synchronoustransition and simulation of viewing the actual world.

FIG. 8 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 806; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 808; detecting at least one object of focus of an eye withrespect to at least one synthetic image at 810; and enhancing the atleast one synthetic image with supplemental information regarding the atleast one object of focus at 812. For example, the synthetic view ofreality can include various features of interest to a pilot. These caninclude cities, runways, mountains, water features, airports, obstacles,waypoints, airspace indications, or the like. The eye focus of a pilotcan be tracked and used to identify any particular object of focus. Thiscombined with dwell time, a speech command, a button push, or othersimilar indication can signal an interest for additional information.The additional information on any object of focus can be provided toassist the pilot in learning or understanding more about the particularobject of focus. For instance, upon detected focus on an airport,additional information can be displayed in association with the airportin the synthetic view. The additional information can include runwaylengths, traffic pattern altitude, traffic pattern direction, preferredrunways, wind direction, weather for the airport, communicationfrequencies, navigational aid frequencies, available instrumentapproaches, or the like. Similarly, detected focus on a distant town orterrain feature can result in expanded display of distance, name,altitude, weather, or the like. The supplemental information can beoutput via a speaker and/or transmitted to one or more avionics systemsor navigational systems to enable control of such.

FIG. 9 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 906; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 908; detecting at least one of the following types ofobjects of focus of an eye with respect to at least one synthetic image:airport, runway, aircraft, airspace, taxiway, fix, control tower, FBO,building, linesman, person at 910; and enhancing the at least onesynthetic image with supplemental information regarding the at least oneobject of focus at 912. For example, upon detected focus on a taxiway inthe synthetic vision, supplemental information can be overlaid on thetaxiway such as taxiway name and/or upcoming taxiway, ramp, or runways.Likewise, upon detected focus on a fix that is part of a highway in thesky output in the synthetic view, a name of the fix, an MEA (minimumenroute altitude) of the fix, an MCA (minimum crossing altitude of thefix), MRA (minimum reception altitude) of the fix, and/or any holdingpattern directions or indications can be displayed in association withthe fix in the synthetic view. Additionally, upon detected focus on atower in the synthetic view, tower frequency information, hours ofoperation, ground control frequency information, clearance deliveryfrequency information, and/or one or more phone numbers can be displayedin association with the tower in the synthetic view. Note that thesynthetic goggles can be enhanced with one or more actual realityobjects or persons. This enables the synthetic goggles to remain worn invisual conditions and for the synthetic view to be more accuratelyaligned with reality. For instance, a linesman in reality can be addedto the synthetic reality display and focus on the linesman can result inoutput of a communication frequency for speaking with the linesman.

FIG. 10 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 1006; providing at least onevirtual world including at least one synthetic image of at least onefield of view corresponding to a position and orientation of the one ormore eyepieces at 1008; and enhancing the at least one virtual worldwith a plurality of possible instrument approach or departure procedurecourses to aid in visualization of the possible instrument approach ordeparture procedure courses at 1010. For example, the synthetic visiongoggles can detect that a pilot is approaching or in proximity to anairport and display the pathways corresponding to various instrumentapproaches available for the airport. These instrument approaches do notnecessarily need to be active, but can be simultaneously or sequentiallydisplayed to facilitate visualization in the synthetic view of theapproach for planning purposes. The approaches or departure procedurescan include VOR, ILS, NDB, LOC, LPV, LNAV, LNAV+V, or other similar typeapproaches. The synthetic vision goggles can then be used to explore theapproach or departure in three-dimensional space, such as in response todetected head movement or orientation changes.

FIG. 11 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 1106; providing at least onevirtual world including at least one synthetic image of at least onefield of view corresponding to a present position of the one or moreeyepieces at 1108; and receiving a request to decouple from the at leastone present position to enable exploration of the at least one virtualworld from one or more positions different from the present position at1110; and providing at least one synthetic image corresponding to one ormore positions different from the present position in response to therequest to decouple at 1112. For example, the synthetic goggles canoutput one or more synthetic views of reality at a position andorientation corresponding to the pilot or plane or helicopter or balloonor drone copter (note that the subject matter herein applies and isusable in any of these contexts) in actual reality. Additionally, thesynthetic vision goggles can upon receipt of request, such as spoken,gesture, eye dwell, or button push, decouple from the present positionand orientation in reality to permit synthetic vision exploration ofvarious different points in reality. That is, the synthetic visiongoggles can be switched to decoupled/untethered synthetic visiongoggles. This functionality enables a pilot or copilot to explore otherareas different from the present position within the synthetic reality.For instance, a pilot may be approaching an airport on autopilot andupon detected request, the synthetic vision goggles can be switched tountethered mode to enable exploration of an approach path and terrainsurrounding the airport prior to arrival at the airport for planningpurposes. Alternatively, a pilot may be approaching a mountainous areaand upon detection of request, the synthetic vision goggles can beswitched to uncoupled mode to enable exploration around and through themountainous area for planning purposes. The synthetic vision goggles canbe returned to the current position and orientation coupled or tetheredmode upon request.

FIG. 12 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 1206; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 1208; recognizing at least one of the following types offeatures using one or more thermal images: car, tree, road, house,light, obstacle, bridge, power line, person, animal, runway, runwaylighting, taxiway, building, aircraft, water, land, PAPI, VASI, approachlights, threshold lights, end lights, taxi lights, edge lights, windsock, beacon at 1210; and obtaining at least one image corresponding tothe at least one recognized feature to include as an enhancement to atleast one synthetic image of at least one field of view at 1212. Forexample, thermal imagery can be obtained by a thermal imaging device ofthe aircraft or the headset. The thermal imagery can be parsed andfiltered for objects of interest, such as terrain, houses, lights,people, or obstacles. Imagery associated with the objects, which may beactual imagery or stock/generic imagery is then obtained and added intothe synthetic reality view at the position or location that correspondsto the actual position or location of the object. In this manner, thesynthetic vision of reality can be blended or enhanced with actualreality objects that may not be visible via the visible spectrum oflight by using heat recognition of the objects. For instance, on anapproach in IMC the synthetic vision of reality can be supplemented withthe actual approach and runway lights to facilitate a safe transition toVMC and landing. Upon entering VMC, in one particular embodiment, thesynthetic vision can transition to an actual displayed view of realityas provided by one or more cameras associated with the headset.

FIG. 13 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 1306; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 1308; and adding at least one object to at least onesynthetic image corresponding to at least one recognized feature of oneor more thermal images at 1310. For example, various objects in theactual world can be identified generally by an outline or thermal imagepattern of the object. Humans will have a different thermal imageprofile than a car or lights or a group of people or an animal or abuilding or the like. Therefore, the different thermal imagery profilescan be used to identify a class or type of object that is detected.Imagery for these types or classes of commonly recognized objects can bestored in memory. Thus, when a particular thermal image pattern isdetected, the type or class can be identified based on the profile ofthe thermal image patter and the appropriate representative imagery canbe obtained from memory. The representative imagery is then outputwithin the synthetic view to supplement or enhance the synthetic visionwith imagery that corresponds to the detected object.

FIG. 14 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 1406; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 1408; and adding at least one object to at least onesynthetic image corresponding to at least one recognized feature of oneor more thermal images, the at least one object being of a size thatprovides distance or depth perception at 1410. For example, the thermalimagery may detect a person or approach lights or an animal. Therepresentative images can be obtained from memory to depict that personor approach lighting and output within the synthetic vision at a sizeand shape and dimension that facilitates distance or depth perception.

FIG. 15 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 1506; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 1508; and adjusting at least one ground contour line in atleast one synthetic image based on at least one recognized feature ofone or more thermal images at 1510. Synthetic vision can be less thanaccurate at times as compared to actual reality. For instance, syntheticvision can deviate with actual orientation over time depending onwhether the heading information is accurately representative of reality.Likewise, contours of terrain or surface features may be slightlydifferent from actual reality. Similarly, locations of airports, runwayorientations, or terrain features may also not exactly correspond toactual reality. In these situations, the thermal imagery of objects andtheir known position in reality can be used to adjust the alignment andcontour lines in the synthetic reality view. That is, the thermalimagery of a runway can be detected through IMC and the position andorientation of the runway can be compared to what is being displayed inthe synthetic vision. Upon detecting a mismatch, the synthetic visioncan be corrected to more closely tie to actual reality and to enablecourse and altitude perceptions to be similarly more closely tied toactual reality.

FIG. 16 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 1606, outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 1608, monitoring visibility conditions at 1610, andproviding at least one indication via the one or more eyepieces when thevisibility conditions are above a specified threshold value at 1612. Forexample, the synthetic vision eyewear can provide a synthetic realityview of actual reality. This is useful during times of low visibility orno visibility, such as during IMC conditions or at night. However, whilethese conditions may prompt usage of the synthetic vision goggles, theconditions may change during usage of the synthetic goggles. Forinstance, IMC conditions may be broken out of, such as by exiting acloud or descending through a cloud base or ascending above a clouddeck. The synthetic vision goggles can include a camera or other lightor visibility sensor that determines when visibility increases beyond aspecified limit, such as beyond ¼ mile or beyond ½ mile or beyond ¾ mileor beyond 1 mile or beyond 5 miles or the like. When such determinationis made, the synthetic vision goggles output an indication of suchwithin the synthetic vision environment to enable the pilot todisconnect the synthetic vision goggles and transition to visual flight.Alternatively, upon detecting improved visibility conditions beyond aspecified threshold, the synthetic vision goggles can transition from adisplay of synthetic reality to a display of actual reality, such as bypassing through camera images of actual reality to be displayed withinthe synthetic vision goggles. This feature can also be useful during anapproach when the synthetic vision goggles can indicate that minimumrequirements are satisfied for a particular approach. In this particularembodiment, the visibility condition threshold can be automaticallyloaded and changed based on which instrument approach is active or flown(e.g., Category A or B plane with LPV/WAAS capability may trigger athreshold visibility of ¼ mile for a particular RNAV approach to arunway).

FIG. 17 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 1706, outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 1708, monitoring visibility conditions at 1710, providingat least one inlay image from at least one camera via the one or moreeyepieces when the visibility conditions are above a specified thresholdvalue at 1712. When visibility conditions change the need or desire todock and use the synthetic vision goggles to the aviation headset, thecamera or other detector can sense the visibility condition improvementand output the indication to enable disconnection or de-docking of thesynthetic vision goggles. However, in certain circumstances, such as ona high workload instrument approach at minimums, decoupling theeyepieces may be less desirable. In these cases, an optional passthrough imagery mode may be automatically enabled whereby the syntheticimagery of reality is replaced or supplemented with actual realityimages obtained from a camera associated with the headset or thesynthetic vision goggles. Thus, during breakout from a cloud base, thesynthetic imagery that facilitated situational awareness can beseamlessly transitioned to actual reality images that are usable todescend below minimums for the approach and safely land. Anothersituation where this feature can be enabled is when transitioning intoand out of IMC conditions. The synthetic imagery and the actual realityimages can be iteratively transitioned therebetween to facilitate safetywhile visibility conditions are constantly changing.

FIG. 18 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 1806, outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 1808, performing speech recognition to identify at leastone ATC command at 1810, and detecting at least one discrepancyinvolving at least one instrument when at least one value deviates fromthe at least one ATC command at 1812. The aviation communication headsetreceives data or voice signals that are output as speech sounds via oneor more speakers. The speech sounds often include ATC (Air TrafficControl) instructions, such as turn to a heading, descend to analtitude, reduce speed to a certain airspeed, turn to a course, clearedto a fix, cleared for an approach, communicate on a certain frequency,and the like. A processor associated with the synthetic vision gogglesor the aviation communication headset can perform speech recognition onthese signals to identify commands and compare those commands to theflight information being output via the synthetic vision goggles. Forinstance, flight information such as heading, course, altitude,airspeed, navigation, radio frequency, and the like can be identifiedand compared to the expected values as determined through speechrecognition of the speaker sounds. In an event of a discrepancy, anindicator can be displayed via the synthetic vision goggles proximate tothe aviation flight information at issue to notify the pilot. The speechrecognition can filter commands received based on the aircraftidentification information, such as tail number, that is included in thespeech sounds. Furthermore, the detection of the discrepancy can includea delay time to permit time for the speech commands to be processed bythe pilot and changed as directed. For example, ATC speech commands canbe detected and recognized as an indication to turn left to a heading of140 and descend to 2500 feet. After approximately 5 to 15 seconds, theprocessor can determine whether the heading of 140 and altitude of 2500feet has been satisfied or is being satisfied using the flightinformation associated with the synthetic goggles. In the event not, apulsation of the heading and altitude can appear within the syntheticgoggles to remind or notify the pilot of the ATC command.

FIG. 19 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 1906, outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 1908, performing speech recognition to identify at leastone ATC command to climb, descend, or maintain at least one specifiedaltitude at 1910, detecting at least one discrepancy involving altitudewhen at least one altitude value is not consistent with the at least oneATC command to climb, descend or maintain the at least one specifiedaltitude at 1912. As another specific example of this operation, theprocessor can detect and recognize a speech command to maintain level9000 indicated altitude for November 104 Zulu Uniform, the specific tailnumber that corresponds to the aircraft. Upon recognizing the tailnumber and the level 9000 altitude command, the processor can monitorthe altitude output in the aviation flight information of the syntheticgoggles and determine whether the altitude deviates from 9000 by morethan a specified threshold amount. The threshold amount can be userdefined or automatically selected, such as not to exceed 100 feetdeviation. Upon detecting any such deviation beyond the threshold, thesynthetic vision goggles can display a notification indication. Incertain embodiments, a further request can be provided to switch toautopilot mode and if accepted and instruction can be transmitted to thenavigation system of the aircraft to make the correction in altitude.

FIG. 20 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 2006; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 2008; performing speech recognition to identify at leastone ATC command to increase, decrease, or maintain at least onespecified speed at 2010; and detecting at least one discrepancyinvolving airspeed when at least one airspeed value is not consistentwith the at least one ATC command to increase, decrease, or maintain theat least one specified speed at 2012. For example, a detected andrecognized ATC instruction may be to slow to 200 knots indicated. Theprocessor component can then determine whether the displayed aviationinformation in the synthetic vision goggles is consistent with thisinstruction within 10 seconds of receipt. In the event not, the airspeedbug can blink or flash or move to provide a reminder regarding thecommand for airspeed. In one particular embodiment, the airspeed bugdisplayed on the synthetic vision goggles can be moved to the ATCcommanded airspeed to further assist in compliance of the command.

FIG. 21 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 2106; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 2108; performing speech recognition to identify at leastone ATC command to turn or maintain at least one specified heading at2110; and detecting at least one discrepancy involving heading when atleast one heading value is not consistent with the at least one ATCcommand to turn or maintain the at least one specified heading at 2112.For example, a ATC command for N104ZU to turn right 10 degrees can bedetected and recognized through speech recognition. The processor canadjust the heading bug automatically to move 10 degrees right of thecurrent heading (e.g., 90 degrees if currently at an 80 degree heading).Furthermore, the processor can determine if after 5 seconds whether aturn to the heading is being conducted or whether a turn to the headinghas been accomplished using the flight information of the syntheticvision goggles. In the event not, the heading bug may flash or a warningindication may be output via the speakers or the display of thesynthetic vision goggles. For instance, a voice output via the headsetspeakers may state that a turn to the right 10 degrees should beperformed.

FIG. 22 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 2206; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 2208; performing speech recognition to identify at leastone ATC command to navigate to at least one specified course, fix,navaid, waypoint, or airport at 2210; and detecting at least onediscrepancy involving navigation when at least one navigation value isnot consistent with the at least one ATC command to navigate to the atleast one specified course, fix, navaid, waypoint, or airport at 2212.For example, the ATC command may include an instruction of cleareddirect to ZOLGI intersection and then hold. The processor can detect andrecognize this instruction as applicable and determine whether theinstruction is being complied with by monitoring the flight informationof the synthetic vision goggles. For instance, a turn in the wrongdirection away from ZOLGI or a hold in the wrong direction upon crossingZOLGI can trigger a warning indication on the display of the syntheticvision goggles or via the audio output of speakers of the aviationcommunication headset. For instance, the warning indication can be anarrow or directional indication on the display or an audible warningthat a right turn is recommend if a left turn is away from the fix ornavigational path.

FIG. 23 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 2308; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 2310; performing speech recognition to identify at leastone ATC command to tune to at least one specified frequency at 2312; anddetecting at least one discrepancy involving radio when at least onefrequency value is not consistent with the at least one ATC command totune to the at least one specified frequency at 2314. For example, anATC instruction may be to contact Seattle Center on 127.1. Upondetection and recognition of the radio frequency command received anddetermined applicable to the aircraft, the processor can determinewhether the radio frequency has been tuned to 127.1 within a specifiedtime period using the flight information associated with the one or moreeyepieces. In the event not, the radio frequency can be autotuned or anindication can be made to correct the issue.

FIG. 24 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 2406; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 2408; performing speech recognition to identify at leastone ATC command to enter at least one specified transponder code at2410; and detecting at least one discrepancy involving transponder whenat least one squawk code is not consistent with the at least one ATCcommand to enter the at least one specified transponder code at 2412.For instance, upon recognition and determined applicability of an ATCcommand to squawk 6312, the processor can determine using the flightinformation of the synthetic vision goggles whether the transponder hasbeen switched to the appropriate code of 6312. If an ident request ismade, the processor can further determine whether the ident indicationhas been activated. In the event not, the transponder can be autotunedto 6312 and the ident request satisfied.

Note that in FIGS. 18-24, a camera of the aviation communication headsetor the synthetic vision goggles can be used to scan the instruments ofthe aircraft, such as the panel mounted instruments. The instruments maybe digital or analog and the values can be monitored to determinewhether or not compliance with an ATC command is satisfied.

FIG. 25 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 2506; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 2508; receiving ADS-B information including position andtail number information at 2510; correlating the ADS-B information withat least one aircraft in at least one field of view at 2512; anddisplaying the ADS-B information via the one or more eyepieces at one ormore positions that coincide with the at least one aircraft at 2514. Thesynthetic vision goggles are operable to display a synthetic view ofreality, including representations of aircraft within the apparent fieldof view of the synthetic vision goggles. A processor associated with theheadset or the synthetic vision goggles receives ADS-B informationincluding tail number and position information for aircraft in thevicinity. The tail number and position information are then displayedwithin the synthetic vision goggles at a position that corresponds tothe actual position in reality of the aircraft.

FIG. 26 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 2608; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 2610; and displaying ADS-B information for at least oneaircraft in at least one field of view, including relative altitude,distance, heading, and tail number information, using the one or moreeyepieces at one or more positions that coincide with the at least oneaircraft at 2612. For example, the synthetic vision goggles can displayat a position in the synthetic vision that corresponds to an actuallocation or position of an aircraft in reality, the tail number andaltitude the aircraft as well as direction of flight or distance awayinformation for the aircraft.

FIG. 27 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 2706; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 2708; and outputting at least one audible indicationregarding at least one aircraft in at least one field of view via theone or more speakers at 2710. For example, a processor can obtaininformation from a camera associated with the headset or syntheticvision goggles regarding aircraft within the field of view. The cameracan include very high resolution image capture capabilities to enablediscrimination of aircraft that are difficult to see with the naked eye.Upon detecting an aircraft within the field of view, an audibleindication can be provided via the speakers of the aviationcommunication headset. For example, if a plane is detected by thecamera, the speakers can state a warning that there exists an aircraftat 2 o'clock, five miles, opposite direction, 500 feet below. Thisinformation can further or alternatively be displayed via the syntheticvision goggles.

FIG. 28 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 2806; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 2808; determining relative movement of at least oneaircraft in at least one field of view based on one or more changes insize or position of the at least one aircraft using at least one cameraat 2810; and outputting the relative movement information using the oneor more eyepieces at 2812. For example, a camera on the synthetic visiongoggles can be used to detect movement from left to right or right toleft or up or down in combination with increases or decreases in size.The processor can then use this information to determine the distance,direction, and speed of the aircraft and then output the information fordisplay on the synthetic vision goggles. Thus, ADS-B information can besupplemented with visual field information that is actually detectedusing the camera. Further the ADS-B information can be confirmed againstwhat is actually detected. The camera can include both normal spectrumand infrared spectrum detection capabilities to permit other aircraft tobe identified during either VMC or IMC conditions.

FIG. 29 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 2906; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 2908; and tracking at least one aircraft in at least onefield of view using at least one camera at 2910. The processor can usethe information from the camera of the headset or synthetic visiongoggles to monitor and track movement of aircraft in reality while thesynthetic vision headset is being worn. The tracked movement of anyaircraft can be displayed using the synthetic vision goggles.

FIG. 30 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 3006; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 3008; and providing at least one audible indication of atleast one aircraft within at least one field of view via the one or morespeakers at 3010. The audible indication can include output via thespeakers of the aviation communication headset that there exists anaircraft within the field of view. A specified distance or direction oraltitude threshold can be defined, which then is used to filter outnotifications for only those aircraft that satisfy the conditionsspecified.

FIG. 31 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 3106; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 3108; storing in memory one or more received ATCinstructions at 3110; receiving at least one voice request to replay oneor more ATC instructions at 3112; and outputting the one or more ATCinstructions from memory for output via the one or more eyepieces 3114.For example, ATC communication may be received to descend to 3500 feetand reset transponder to 6464 and contact Center on 125.7. This audiocan be stored in memory and then recalled by speaking into themicrophone of the aviation communication headset. For instance, acommand of ‘AITHRE play back ATC’. Upon receiving this command, theprocessor component of the aviation communication headset or thesynthetic vision goggles can obtain the last ATC instruction from memoryand output the instruction as visual text information or as indicatorssuch as flashing heading bugs via the synthetic vision goggles.Optionally, the ATC command may also be output audibly via the speakersof the aviation communication headset.

FIG. 32 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 3208; outputting aviation flightinformation via the one or more docks for display on the one or moreeyepieces at 3210; converting one or more ATC instructions fromspeech/voice data to text/graphical data at 3212; and outputting thetext/graphical data for output via the one or more eyepieces at 3214.For example, ATC communication can be received by the aviationcommunication headset to proceed direct to the ZOLGI fix and maintain4000. The ATC instruction can be stored in memory and then recalled viathe microphone of the aviation communication headset with a playbackrequest. Upon receiving the playback request, the processor component ofthe aviation communication headset or the synthetic vision goggles theobtains the ATC instruction from memory and coverts the instruction tovisual data that is output via the synthetic vision goggles. Forinstance, the digital HSI indicator can display relative to the ZOLGIfix and the altitude bug can flash or pulse at 4000 feet MSL.

FIG. 33 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more docks 123 configured to interface with one or more eyepieces120/121; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: detecting a presence of one or moreeyepieces at the one or more docks at 3308; selecting the aviationflight information based on information obtained from the at least onebiometric sensor at 3310; and outputting the aviation flight informationvia the one or more docks for display on the one or more eyepieces at3312. Different individuals may use or share the synthetic visiongoggles. For example, in a flight training environment there may be manydifferent students that can dock the synthetic vision goggles.Additionally, in a commercial flight environment, the synthetic visiongoggles may stay with the plane as different pilots transition betweenflights. Furthermore, in a pilot or co-pilot situation there may besharing of the synthetic vision goggles. The synthetic vision gogglesinclude a biometric sensor that detects fingerprint or iris informationto identify the wearer. Upon identifying the wearer the settings forthat particular individual can be loaded and assumed in the syntheticvision environment. For instance, a pilot may be a VFR only pilot so theprocessor component can remove any IFR related information that may beunnecessary or confusing to the pilot, such as HIS, approach ordeparture procedure information, or glideslope information.Alternatively, a passenger may not be a pilot and the processor can tunethe settings of the synthetic vision goggles to provide interestingnon-flight information about towns, airports, or other features ofinterest.

FIG. 34 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining one ormore values from the one or more physiological sensors; and outputtinginformation regarding the one or more values via the one or morespeakers. The one or more physiological sensors 118 can include a bloodoxygen level sensor; a pulse rate sensor; a temperature sensor; aperspiration sensor; chemical sensor; or a coloration sensor. The one ormore physiological sensors 118 can be incorporated on any of a headband,ear cushion, or within an ear cup of the headset. An earlobe receptaclemay be incorporated within an ear cup of the headset, wherein the one ormore physiological sensors are included within the earlobe receptaclefor obtaining one or more physiological measurements from an earlobe ofan individual when the headset is being worn. The earlobe receptacle maybe movable. For instance, the physiological sensor may monitor bloodoxygen level by emitting an alternating red and infrared light anddetermining an intensity of absorbed or reflected light. The bloodoxygen level can then be audibly output via the speakers of the aviationcommunication headset, such as outputting that your blood oxygen levelis good or normal.

FIG. 35 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining onrequest one or more values from the one or more physiological sensors at3508; and outputting information regarding the one or more values viathe one or more speakers at 3510. For example, a speech request can bereceived by the processor component via the microphone of the aviationcommunication headset for an update on a panel of health parameters.Upon receiving the speech request, the processor can obtain from memoryor in real-time from the physiological sensor information to satisfy therequest. The panel of health information can then be output via thespeakers of the aviation communication headset. For instance, audibleinformation can be output via the speakers regarding the blood pressure,heart rate, blood oxygen level, and carbon monoxide information.

FIG. 36 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining on speechrequest received from the at least one microphone one or more valuesfrom the one or more physiological sensors at 3608; and outputtinginformation regarding the one or more values via the one or morespeakers at 3610. For example, the processor can obtain a speech commandfrom the microphone of the aviation communication headset such as“AITHRE tell me my pulse and blood pressure”. The processor can use thephysiological sensor to obtain the pulse and blood pressure informationand then output the values audibly via the speakers of the aviationcommunication headset.

FIG. 37 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining on buttonrequest received from the at least one button associated with theaviation communication headset one or more values from the one or morephysiological sensors at 3708; and outputting information regarding theone or more values via the one or more speakers at 3710. For instance,the processor component can detect that a button on the earcup of theheadset has been depressed. Upon detecting the button press, theprocessor component can signal and output information via the speakersregarding the health parameters.

FIG. 38 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: automaticallyobtaining on a scheduled basis one or more values from the one or morephysiological sensors at 3808; and outputting information regarding theone or more values via the one or more speakers at 3810. The processorcomponent can intermittently determine the value of one or more healthparameters, such as breathing rate, skin coloration, or hearing levels,and output information on the one or more health parameters via thespeakers of the aviation communication headset. The intervals ofmonitoring can be user defined or default values and may increase ordecrease automatically. For instance, the interval may begin at every 5minutes, but shorten to every minute in an event of a health parametersbeing outside a defined or specified normal range.

FIG. 39 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining scheduleinformation as user input from the at least one microphone for defininga sample period for obtaining the one or more values from the one ormore physiological sensors at 3908; obtaining one or more values fromthe one or more physiological sensors at 3910; and outputtinginformation regarding the one or more values via the one or morespeakers and 3912. For example, a processor component can detect aspeech command such as “AITHRE output carbon monoxide and blood oxygenlevels above 10000 feet and every minute.” The processor component canthen establish those parameters and output the blood oxygen and carbonmonoxide levels beginning at 10000 feet every minute via the speakers ofthe aviation communication headset.

FIG. 40 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining scheduleinformation as user input received wirelessly from a smartphone, tablet,or avionics system for defining a sample period for obtaining the one ormore values from the one or more physiological sensors at 4008;obtaining one or more values from the one or more physiological sensorsat 4010; and outputting information regarding the one or more values viathe one or more speakers at 4012. For example, a wireless receiver ofthe aviation communication headset can receive a wireless communicationfrom a tablet computer that includes a defined schedule information forhealth parameter output. The schedule information can be time based orneed based, such as when a health parameter is above or below aspecified threshold, altitude based, and may be changed based oncircumstances, such as quicker or slower based on values of the healthparameter. The health parameter can be output audibly via the speakersof the aviation communication headset or can be output visually via thetablet, phone, watch, avionics system, or heads up display.

FIG. 41 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: calibrating aspecified threshold or a specified value for evaluating one or morevalues based on user input at 4108; obtaining one or more values fromthe one or more physiological sensors at 4110; and outputtinginformation regarding the one or more values via the one or morespeakers at 4112. For example, the processor component can receive anaudible command received via the microphone of the aviationcommunication headset, such as “AITHRE set carbon monoxide threshold to10 PPM.” The processor component can then store the threshold in memoryfor use in determining when one or more physiological values is outsidenormal values. The input can alternatively be received as one or morewireless signals from an avionics system or from a portable electronicdevice.

FIG. 42 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: receiving speechinput obtained by the at least one microphone including one or morecalibration commands at 4208; calibrating a specified threshold or aspecified value for evaluating one or more values based on the one ormore calibration commands received as speech input at 4210; obtainingone or more values from the one or more physiological sensors at 4212;and outputting information regarding the one or more values via the oneor more speakers at 4214. For example, the processor component canreceive one or more speech signals received via wireless communicationwith a mobile phone device. The speech signals can include a command toset the blood oxygen threshold to 90 percent. The threshold can bestored in memory and then used to determine whether the blood oxygenlevel should be output via the speakers of the aviation communicationheadset.

FIG. 43 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: receiving inputobtained via wireless communications from one or more smartphones,tablets, or avionics systems including one or more calibration commandsat 4308; calibrating a specified threshold or a specified value forevaluating one or more values based on the one or more calibrationcommands received as input at 4310; obtaining one or more values fromthe one or more physiological sensors at 4312; and outputtinginformation regarding the one or more values via the one or morespeakers at 4314. For example, the processor component can receive oneor more BLUETOOTH or WIFI signals from a tablet computer, such as anIPAD MINI that is running an aviation health application. Theapplication can provide a sliding bar scale for each of one or moremeasurable parameters, wherein the position of the sliding bar on thescale defines where to trigger warnings. The application can includecustomization or individualization, such as for each of the passengers.For instance, a child can be more closely monitored with tightertolerances than an adult. The processor then receives the communicationsvia a receiver and then stores the thresholds for comparison withmeasured parameters.

FIG. 44 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining one ormore values from the one or more physiological sensors at 4408;determining whether the one or more values is above or less than aspecified threshold at 4410; and outputting information regarding theone or more values via the one or more speakers at 4412. For example,the processor component can receive heart rate, blood pressure,perspiration, breathing rate, coloration, blood oxygen, carbon monoxide,pupil dilation, hearing test, chemical measurements, or the like fromthe one or more physiological sensors. The processor then obtains frommemory the one or more thresholds for each of the various parameters andthen determines which, if any, are above or below the specifiedthresholds. A warning can then be provided as audible output via thespeakers of the aviation communication headset. For instance, thespeakers can output an indication that skin coloration is indicatingpaleness and sweat is above normal and suggest air or hydration. Theoutput can also indicate that any or all parameters are within normalrange.

FIG. 45 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining one ormore values from the one or more physiological sensors at 4508;determining whether the one or more values is equivalent to a specifiedvalue at 4510; and outputting information regarding the one or morevalues via the one or more speakers at 4512. For example, the thresholdvalue can be an equivalency test such as a subjective or objectivevalue. The test can be binary, Boolean, or a test of a specific numberor percentage.

FIG. 46 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining one ormore values from the one or more physiological sensors at 4608; andoutputting a tone or speech data regarding the one or more values viaone or more speakers at 4610. For example, the speech output can be avoice output via the speakers of the aviation communication headset,such as “Jim your blood pressure appears to be falling”.

Alternatively, a tone can be emitted such as a single tone for normalparameter values and a dual tone for abnormal parameter values. Thefrequency of the speech or tone output can be adjusted by the processorcomponent according a user specification or according to a severitylevel of the deviance from the threshold. For instance, the processorcomponent can signal for the emission of one or more sounds every minuteduring normal parameter values but then quicken the emissions to every15 seconds for deviant situations. The processor component can thenshift back to more periodic emissions upon recovery of the parametervalue toward the normal level.

FIG. 47 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining one ormore values from the one or more physiological sensors at 4708; andoutputting information regarding the one or more values via the one ormore speakers in response to the one or more values being above or lessthan a specified threshold at 4710. For example, the processor componentcan obtain from memory the stored threshold value of 90 beats perminute. The processor can compare heart rate values to the 90 beats perminute and upon surpassing that rate, emit an audio signal for outputvia the speakers of the aviation communication headset.

FIG. 48 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining one ormore values from the one or more physiological sensors at 4808 andoutputting information regarding the one or more values via the one ormore speakers in response to the one or more values being a specifiedamount at 4810. For example, the processor can obtain from memory astored value of 50 ppm for carbon monoxide. Upon receiving analog inputsignals from a carbon monoxide sensor that are indicative of 50 ppm, theprocessor component can signal for the output of a series of tones viathe speaker of the aviation communication headset.

FIG. 49 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining one ormore values from the one or more physiological sensors at 4908; andtransmitting information regarding the one or more values wirelessly foroutput via a smartphone, tablet, or avionics system. For example, upon adetermination that a physiological parameter is at, above, or below aspecified value, the processor component can signal for wirelesstransmission via BLUETOOTH or WIFI, which signal is readable by asmartwatch, smartphone, or tablet computer. The processor can alsocommunicate with these devices all parameter values even when not in analarm or warning situation. In one particular embodiment, a panel ofhealth parameters can be communicated to an avionics system of theaircraft for output, such as adjacent to the engine monitoringinstruments. All passenger health information can be transmitted andselectable or expandable as desired on any one of these electronicdevices or avionics systems.

FIG. 50 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining one ormore values from the one or more physiological sensors at 5008 andtransmitting information regarding the one or more values wirelessly toa paired aviation communication headset for output at 5010. For example,the processor component can through WIFI or BLUETOOTH communicationspair with one or more other processor components of another aviationcommunication headset. The processor component can then receive thewireless signals containing health parameters sampled from physiologicalsensors of the other aviation communication headsets. This enables thephysiological parameters from multiple headsets to be consolidated andmonitored by the processor component and warning signals associated withthe multiple headsets to be output via the speakers. For instance, apilot can monitor passenger physiological values with or withoutpassenger knowledge through use of the paired aviation headsets asdescribed herein.

FIG. 51 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining one ormore values from the one or more physiological sensors at 5108 andoutputting information regarding the one or more values via augmentedreality glasses or synthetic vision goggles at 5110. For example, theprocessor can obtain health parameter values from the physiologicalsensors and then communicate those values to the synthetic visiongoggles or augmented reality goggles for display. The display of thevalues can be a moving bar on a scale, which scale can include colorvariations corresponding to normal, abnormal, and high risk situations.For instance, parameters such as breathing rate, oxygen levels, carbonmonoxide values, heart rate, and others from one or multiple differentaviation communications headsets (e.g., passenger headsets) can bedisplayed for monitoring. The health parameter data can be hidden fromview and then displayed upon detection of an abnormal condition or highrisk condition.

FIG. 52 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: pairing theaviation communication headset with at least one other aviationcommunication headset to transmit or receive one or more values of oneor more physiological sensors to or from the at least one other aviationcommunication headset at 5208; obtaining one or more values from the oneor more physiological sensors at 5210; and outputting informationregarding the one or more values via the one or more speakers at 5212.For example, the processor of a pilot headset can pair via BLUETOOTH orWIFI with a copilot or passenger headset. The pairing can be initiatedby the processor based on received instructions, which can be based onproximity to the other aviation communication headsets, a button, orbased on speech commands received via the microphone of the aviationcommunication headset. Once paired, the processor component can receiveand transmit instructions with the paired aviation communicationheadset. For instance, speech commands can be received via themicrophone of the pilot aviation communication headset to controlsampling and transmission of health data from the copilot aviationcommunication headset or the passenger aviation communication headset. Aspeech command processed by the processor could be, for example, “AITHREtell me ‘PASSENGER'S NAME’ blood oxygen level”. In response to thiscommand, the processor can obtain the parameter value and provide aspeaker output of the value via the speakers of the pilot's aviationcommunication headset.

FIG. 53 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: pairing theaviation communication headset with at least one sensor hotspot totransmit or receive one or more values of one or more physiologicalsensors to or from at least one other aviation communication headset at5308; obtaining one or more values from the one or more physiologicalsensors at 5310; and outputting information regarding the one or morevalues via the one or more speakers at 5312. For example, a processor ofa master aviation communication headset can pair via BLUETOOTH or WIFIwith a hotspot that is located in the aircraft. The hotspot can includea processor, memory, a communication antenna, and instructions thatconfigure the processor to pair with a plurality of slave aviationcommunication headsets to receive and collect health parameter data. Thecollected health parameter data obtained from the plurality of slaveaviation communication headsets can be funneled to the processor of themaster aviation communication headset for output via the speakers,synthetic vision goggles, or augmented reality glasses.

FIG. 54 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: pairing theaviation communication headset with at least one smartphone, tablet, oravionics system to transmit or receive one or more values of one or morephysiological sensors to or from at least one other aviationcommunication headset at 5408; obtaining one or more values from the oneor more physiological sensors at 5410; and outputting informationregarding the one or more values via the one or more speakers at 5412.For example, a mobile phone device can operate as a hotspot to pair withand communicate with a plurality of aviation communication headsets forcollecting health parameter data. The mobile phone device can include anapplication that presents the collected health parameter data, which maybe standalone or be included with a navigation software application,such as that provided by FOREFLIGHT or GARMIN. The processor of theaviation communication headset can communicate with the mobile phonedevice to obtain and output one or more health parameter values via thespeakers of the aviation communication headset.

FIG. 55 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining one ormore values from the one or more physiological sensors at 5508;outputting information regarding the one or more values via the one ormore speakers at 5510; determining that a blood oxygen level is below aspecified threshold at 5512; and controlling an oxygen dispenser torelease additional supplemental oxygen at 5514. For example, theprocessor can obtain blood oxygen levels using red and infrared lightand corresponding sensors that are positioned within an earcup of theaviation communication headset using a earlobe. The values obtained bythe processor can be compared with acceptable values for blood oxygen.Upon determining that the blood oxygen level is low, the processor cansignal for opening of a valve of an oxygen dispenser coupled to theheadband of the aviation communication headset. The degree of valveopening can be correlated to the severity of hypoxic conditions asdetected by the processor using the sensors. That is, a slightly lowoxygen level may result in only a small amount of oxygen being released.A more severe hypoxic condition can result in full valve opening.Feedback from the blood oxygen sensor can result in the processorcontinuously or intermittently adjusting the valve to ensure that theblood oxygen level remains sufficient without unnecessarily wastingavailable oxygen for dispensation.

FIG. 56 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining one ormore values from the one or more physiological sensors at 5608;outputting information regarding the one or more values via the one ormore speakers at 5610; determining that a blood oxygen level is below aspecified threshold at 5612; and controlling an autopilot of an avionicssystem to descend to a lower altitude at 5614. For example, theprocessor component can detect that blood oxygen has fallen below acritical threshold value, such as 70%. At this trigger value, theprocessor component can transmit to a navigation system or avionicssystem or autopilot unit via a communication link an instruction toinitiate a descent to a lower altitude. This functionality can ensurethat in an event of low blood oxygen, which may lead to unresponsivenessin a pilot or copilot, the plane can automatically descend to a saferaltitude where oxygen is more abundant.

FIG. 57 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining one ormore values from the one or more physiological sensors at 5708;outputting information regarding the one or more values via the one ormore speakers at 5710; determining that a blood oxygen level is below aspecified threshold at 5712; and determining whether the blood oxygenlevel is appropriate for a specified altitude determined using the atleast one GPS sensor at 5714. For example, the processor component canobtain the blood oxygen level parameter value from the sensor and a GPSaltitude, which can be adjusted for pressure and temperature to densityaltitude. The GPS or density altitude can be used by the processor toobtain the expected range of blood oxygen levels, which can becalibrated to a person's age. The processor can then compare the bloodoxygen level measured to the expected blood oxygen level to determine ifeither the reading is not accurate or the blood oxygen level is beingaffected by something other than altitude. For instance, the processorcomponent can output a warning to adjust the sensor with respect to theearlobe to ensure a better reading. In an event that a more accuratereading cannot be obtained, the processor component can output a warningto double check the blood oxygen with an alternative measurement tool,such as a finger blood oxygen reader. In an event that the blood oxygenlevel remains inconsistent with altitude expected values, the processorcomponent can provide an output of a health issue that may be affectingthe values independently of altitude. Additional actions that theprocessor may execute are fully opening an oxygen dispenser valve,descending to a lower altitude, turning the transponder to 7700,broadcasting a message via a communication radio on the emergency 121.5frequency regarding the situation, or prompting an emergency checklist.

FIG. 58 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining one ormore values from the one or more physiological sensors at 5808;outputting information regarding the one or more values via the one ormore speakers at 5810; determining that a blood oxygen level is below aspecified threshold at 5812; and determining whether the blood oxygenlevel is appropriate for a specified altitude determined using the atleast one GPS sensor and adjusted for density altitude using informationfrom the at least one barometric pressure sensor and the at least onetemperature sensor at 5814. The processor component can use real-timemeasurements of barometric pressure and temperature to calibrate a GPSaltitude to obtain actual density altitude values. These sensors can beincorporated into the aviation communication headset to enable theprocessor component to more accurately determine an expected bloodoxygen level for a particular altitude MSL.

FIG. 59 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; oneor more physiological sensors 118; and at least one control unit 106configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining one ormore values from the one or more physiological sensors at 5908;outputting information regarding the one or more values via the one ormore speakers at 5910; determining that a blood oxygen level is below aspecified threshold at 5912; and controlling at least one of a radio ortransponder to output at least one distress indication for receipt byair traffic control at 5914. For example, the processor component canupon determining that a blood oxygen level is below a specifiedthreshold, or that any other physiological value is outside a normalrange (including carbon monoxide values), transmit an instruction tosquawk 7700 on the transponder, initiate an ident command, tune acommunication radio to 121.5, and transmit an emergency broadcast on thefrequency. For instance, the processor can request response from a pilotregarding a warning level of low blood oxygen. Upon not receiving anadequate response or an incoherent response, the processor can initiatethe emergency sequence to obtain assistance from air traffic control andemergency personnel.

FIG. 60 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; anoxygen dispenser receptacle 115; a cannula 117; an oxygen container 172;an oxygen regulator 119; a GPS unit 134; and at least one control unit106 configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: determining analtitude based on information from the at least one GPS unit at 6008;and outputting at least one audible indication via the one or morespeakers to attach an oxygen container based on a determination that thealtitude is above a specified level at 6010. For example, the processorcomponent can obtain GPS altitude information from the GPS unit and uponreaching a certain altitude can output an audible reminder via thespeakers of the aviation communication headset to dispense oxygen. Thereminder can specify the level of oxygen per minute to initiate based onthe altitude. For instance, upon reaching 5000 feet at night theprocessor component can provide the audible reminder to begin dispensingoxygen. Alternatively, upon determining that an altitude of 12,500 hasbeen reached during the day the processor component can provide theaudible reminder via the speakers. A light sensor can be integrated intothe aviation communication headset to adjust the trigger values based onthe different requirements of oxygen during the day and night due to therequirement for greater oxygen for night vision.

FIG. 61 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; anoxygen dispenser receptacle 115; a cannula 117; an oxygen container 172;an oxygen regulator 119; a GPS unit 134; and at least one control unit106 configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: determining whetheratmospheric oxygen is below a specified level based on information fromthe at least one oxygen sensor at 6108; and outputting at least oneaudible indication via the one or more speakers to attach an oxygencontainer based on a determination that the atmospheric oxygen is belowa specified level at 6110. For example, the processor component canalternatively obtain actual oxygen level measurements using an oxygensensor integrated with the aviation communication headset. Based onoxygen level measurements, the processor component can initiate theaudible reminder to initiate oxygen dispensation. In certainembodiments, the actual oxygen level measured can be used to comparewith GPS or density altitude based estimates of oxygen levels. Thecomparison can be used to calibrate the GPS and density values.

FIG. 62 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; anoxygen dispenser receptacle 115; a cannula 117; an oxygen container 172;an oxygen regulator 119; a GPS unit 134; and at least one control unit106 configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: determining whetherblood oxygen concentration is below a specified level based oninformation from the at least one blood oximeter at 6208; and outputtingat least one audible indication via the one or more speakers to attachan oxygen container based on a determination that the blood oxygenconcentration is below a specified level at 6210. For example, theprocessor component can provide a reminder to attach the oxygendispenser based on a measured blood oxygen level using earlobe sensorsdisposed within an earcup of the aviation communication headset.

FIG. 63 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; anoxygen dispenser receptacle 115; a cannula 117; an oxygen container 172;an oxygen regulator 119; a GPS unit 134; and at least one control unit106 configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: determining whetherblood oxygen concentration is below a specified level based oninformation from the at least one blood oximeter at 6308; andcontrolling at least one oxygen regulator to increase oxygen dispensedbased on a determination that the blood oxygen concentration is below aspecified level at 6310. For example, the processor can provide anoutput via the speakers to attach an oxygen cylinder upon reaching10,000 MSL density altitude. The blood oxygen level can be obtained fromone or more sensors by the processor component thereafter to adjust avalve or control a regulator to dispense the minimum necessary oxygenrequired to maintain a specified blood oxygen value, such as over 85percent or over 90 percent blood oxygen.

FIG. 64 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; anoxygen dispenser receptacle 115; a cannula 117; an oxygen container 172;an oxygen regulator 119; a GPS unit 134; and at least one control unit106 configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: determining whetherblood oxygen concentration is above a specified level based oninformation from the at least one blood oximeter at 6408; andcontrolling at least one oxygen regulator to decrease oxygen dispensedbased on a determination that the blood oxygen concentration is above aspecified level at 6410. For example, upon detecting that the bloodoxygen level is above 95%, the processor component can control aregulator of an oxygen container to incrementally reduce the flow ofoxygen until the blood oxygen level stabilizes at a specified value,such as 90%. This incremental adjustment by the processor can maximizethe duration of available oxygen and minimize waste.

FIG. 65 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; anoxygen dispenser receptacle 115; a cannula 117; an oxygen container 172;an oxygen regulator 119; a GPS unit 134; and at least one control unit106 configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: obtaining one ormore speech commands via the at least one microphone at 6508; andcontrolling at least one oxygen regulator to adjust oxygen dispensedbased on the one or more speech commands received via the at least onemicrophone at 6510. The processor of the aviation communication headsetcan receive speech commands via the microphone of the aviationcommunication headset. The processor can perform speech recognition onthe speech commands and convert those speech commands into controlsignals of the oxygen regulator. For instance, the processor can receivea speech command to increase the flow of oxygen by 0.1 L per hour. Theprocessor can then control the oxygen regulator to result in flow of 0.1L per hour.

FIG. 66 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; anoxygen dispenser receptacle 115; a cannula 117; an oxygen container 172;an oxygen regulator 119; a GPS unit 134; and at least one control unit106 configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: determining whetheroxygen flow is below a specified level based on information from the atleast one oxygen flow sensor at 6608; and outputting at least oneaudible warning indication via the one or more speakers based on adetermination that the oxygen flow is below a specified level at 6610.The processor component can receive flow rate signals from an oxygenflow sensor or meter that is associated with the cannula. Upon detectinga flow rate that is less than an expected amount, such as when theoxygen container is almost depleted or when the regulator is notproperly functioning, the processor component can output an audiblewarning via the speakers of the aviation communication headset. Thewarning can include an indication to replace the oxygen container. Theprocessor component can also adjust the regulator dynamically based onthe actual flow rate of oxygen to ensure the desired amount of oxygen isdispensed.

FIG. 67 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; anoxygen dispenser receptacle 115; a cannula 117; an oxygen container 172;an oxygen regulator 119; a GPS unit 134; and at least one control unit106 configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least:

FIG. 68 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; anoxygen dispenser receptacle 115; a cannula 117; an oxygen container 172;an oxygen regulator 119; a GPS unit 134; and at least one control unit106 configured by one or more executable instructions stored on computermemory 108 to perform operations including at least: determining whetheroxygen concentration is below a specified level based on informationfrom the at least one oxygen concentration sensor at 6708; andoutputting at least one audible warning indication via the one or morespeakers based on a determination that the oxygen concentration is belowa specified level at 6710. For example, the processor component can,periodically or on demand, obtain pressure readouts from an oxygenconcentration or pressure sensor associated with the regulator or thedispenser container. Upon the pressure or concentration of oxygenfalling below a specified value, the processor component can output anaudible warning, such as an indication to replace the oxygen containeror an indication that there remains a specified number of minutesremaining of oxygen. The processor can also control the regulator in anemergency mode to conserve as much oxygen as possible by lowering thedispensation to the minimum threshold for cognitive functioning.

FIGS. 69-84 are system diagrams of an aviation communication headsetinsert device 150, in accordance with various embodiments of theinvention. In these embodiments, an aviation communication headsetinsert device 150 may include, but is not limited to, an earlobereceptacle 154; tension members 152 extending from opposing ends of theearlobe receptacle to tensionally brace the insert device 150 within anear cup of an aviation headset; a physiological sensor 156 incorporatedinto the earlobe receptacle; a speaker 158; and at least one controlunit 162 configured by one or more executable instructions stored oncomputer memory 160 to perform specified operations. The specifiedoperations are similar or equivalent to those discussed in reference toFIGS. 34-59, with the exception that the insert device is self-containedand performs the operations independent of the aviation communicationheadset, thereby enabling similar functionality to be introduced tolegacy aviation communication headsets.

FIG. 85 is a system diagram of an aviation communication headset insertdevice 150, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In thisembodiment, an aviation communication headset insert device 150includes, but is not limited to, an earlobe receptacle 154; tensionmembers 152 extending from opposing ends of the earlobe receptacle totensionally brace the insert device 150 within an ear cup of an aviationheadset; a physiological sensor 156 incorporated into the earlobereceptacle; a speaker 158; a microphone 173, and at least one controlunit 162 configured by one or more executable instructions stored oncomputer memory 160 to perform operations of: obtaining one or morephysiological measurements using the physiological sensor at 8508;outputting one or more audible indications associated with the one ormore physiological measurements via the speaker at 8510; recognizing oneor more audible commands output via one or more speakers associated withan aviation communication headset resultant from intercom speech inputvia a microphone of the aviation communication headset at 8512;outputting at least one sound via the speaker in response to the one ormore audible commands at 8514; and controlling operation of the insertdevice based on the one or more audible commands at 8516. For example,the microphone of the insert device can detect speech signals outputfrom a speaker of an aviation communication headset due to the placementof the insert device within the acoustically isolated environment. Thus,a microphone of the aviation communication headset can be used tocommunicate with the insert device due to the output via speakers of anearcup which are detected by the microphone of the insert device. Theprocessor of the insert device can recognize the speech signals detectedusing speech recognition and convert the speech signals into commandsthat are usable to control the insert device. No wiring between theinsert device and an aviation communication headset is required. Thespeaker of the insert device can output audible sound based on signalsfrom the processor of the insert device, which sounds are again withinthe acoustically isolated earcup of the aviation communication headset.For instance, the processor of the insert device can detect andrecognize a speech command of “AITHRE tell me my blood oxygen level”,which speech command originates from a microphone of an aviationcommunication headset and is output via a speaker of the aviationcommunication headset where the insert device is positioned and wherethe microphone of the insert device detects such. The processor of theinsert device can obtain the current or recent blood oxygen level andoutput that value via a speaker of the insert device, such that thereadout of the blood oxygen level can be heard by a wearer of theaviation communication headset.

FIG. 86 is a system diagram of an aviation communication headset insertdevice 150, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In thisembodiment, an aviation communication headset insert device 150includes, but is not limited to, an earlobe receptacle 154; tensionmembers 152 extending from opposing ends of the earlobe receptacle totensionally brace the insert device 150 within an ear cup of an aviationheadset; a physiological sensor 156 incorporated into the earlobereceptacle; a speaker 158; a microphone 173, and at least one controlunit 162 configured by one or more executable instructions stored oncomputer memory 160 to perform operations of: recognizing one or moreaudible commands output via one or more speakers associated with anaviation communication headset resultant from intercom speech input viaa microphone of the aviation communication headset at 8610; initiating asample of the one or more physiological measurements based on the one ormore audible commands at 8612; obtaining one or more physiologicalmeasurements using the physiological sensor at 8614; and outputting oneor more audible indications associated with the one or morephysiological measurements via the speaker at 8616. For example, theprocessor of the insert device can recognize a command received via amicrophone of the insert device, which command was spoken into amicrophone of an aviation communication headset and reproduced into theacoustically isolated environment of the earcup of the aviation headsetvia the speaker of the aviation headset. The recognized command caninclude initiating a sample of pulse rate. The processor executes therecognized command and obtains the pulse rate using the physiologicalsensor of the insert device. The processor of the insert device thenoutputs via a speaker of the insert device the pulse rate, such as 70beats per minute.

FIG. 87 is a system diagram of an aviation communication headset insertdevice 150, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In thisembodiment, an aviation communication headset insert device 150includes, but is not limited to, an earlobe receptacle 154; tensionmembers 152 extending from opposing ends of the earlobe receptacle totensionally brace the insert device 150 within an ear cup of an aviationheadset; a physiological sensor 156 incorporated into the earlobereceptacle; a speaker 158; a microphone 173, and at least one controlunit 162 configured by one or more executable instructions stored oncomputer memory 160 to perform operations of: recognizing one or moreaudible commands output via one or more speakers associated with anaviation communication headset resultant from intercom speech input viaa microphone of the aviation communication headset at 8710; adjusting asampling schedule for obtaining the one or more physiologicalmeasurements based on the one or more audible commands at 8712;obtaining one or more physiological measurements using the physiologicalsensor at 8714; and outputting one or more audible indicationsassociated with the one or more physiological measurements via thespeaker at 8716. For example, the processor of the insert device canrecognize an audible command to sample blood oxygen every minute whenover 10,000 feet MSL. The processor can then adjust the sample rate inaccordance of the command and initiate sampling and output of the bloodoxygen values determined using the sensors of the insert device.

FIG. 88 is a system diagram of an aviation communication headset insertdevice 150, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In thisembodiment, an aviation communication headset insert device 150includes, but is not limited to, an earlobe receptacle 154; tensionmembers 152 extending from opposing ends of the earlobe receptacle totensionally brace the insert device 150 within an ear cup of an aviationheadset; a physiological sensor 156 incorporated into the earlobereceptacle; a speaker 158; a microphone 173, and at least one controlunit 162 configured by one or more executable instructions stored oncomputer memory 160 to perform operations of: recognizing one or moreaudible commands output via one or more speakers associated with anaviation communication headset resultant from intercom speech input viaa microphone of the aviation communication headset at 8810; calibratinga threshold for the one or more physiological measurements based on theone or more audible commands at 8812; obtaining one or morephysiological measurements using the physiological sensor at 8814; andoutputting one or more audible indications associated with the one ormore physiological measurements via the speaker at 8816. For example,the processor of the insert device can recognize a command received viathe microphone of the insert device to set the blood oxygen warningthreshold to 90 percent. The processor of the insert device can thenestablish the threshold and compare sampled blood oxygen levels to thethreshold. In an event that the blood oxygen level falls below 90percent, the processor of the insert device can output an indication ofsuch via the speaker of the insert device.

FIG. 89 is a system diagram of an aviation communication headset insertdevice 150, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In thisembodiment, an aviation communication headset insert device 150includes, but is not limited to, an earlobe receptacle 154; tensionmembers 152 extending from opposing ends of the earlobe receptacle totensionally brace the insert device 150 within an ear cup of an aviationheadset; a physiological sensor 156 incorporated into the earlobereceptacle; a speaker 158; a microphone 173, and at least one controlunit 162 configured by one or more executable instructions stored oncomputer memory 160 to perform operations of: obtaining one or morephysiological measurements using the physiological sensor at 8908;outputting one or more audible indications associated with the one ormore physiological measurements via the speaker at 8910; recognizing oneor more audible commands output via one or more speakers associated withan aviation communication headset resultant from intercom speech inputvia a microphone of the aviation communication headset at 8912; andpairing the insert device with at least one other device based on theone or more audible commands at 8914. The processor of the insert devicemay be paired via BLUETOOTH or WIFI with another insert device, a mobilecomputing device, or with an avionics system of an aircraft. Theprocessor can initiate pairing based on proximity, recognition of aprior paired device, or based on speech commands recognized and receivedvia a microphone of the insert device. For instance, the processor ofthe insert device can receive a command of “AITHRE begin pairing withall other insert devices.” This command can be provided via a microphoneof an aviation headset and output via a speaker of the aviation headsetwhere it is detected by the microphone and processor of the insertdevice. Upon recognition of the pairing command, the processor of theinsert device can initiate and complete pairing and provide an audibleindicator of the status of the pairing via the speaker of the insertdevice. Pairing of the insert device can enable communications to flowtherebetween. One specific embodiment would be for the processor of theinsert device to act as a master for other slave insert devices, tocollect and output physiological parameter values, such as those forco-pilots or passengers. Another specific embodiment would be for theprocessor of the insert device to transmit physiological parametervalues to a mobile device or avionics system to output the parametervalues, such as in a panel of digital instruments adjacent to enginemonitoring instruments.

FIG. 90 is a system diagram of an aviation communication headset insertdevice 150, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In thisembodiment, an aviation communication headset insert device 150includes, but is not limited to, an earlobe receptacle 154; tensionmembers 152 extending from opposing ends of the earlobe receptacle totensionally brace the insert device 150 within an ear cup of an aviationheadset; a physiological sensor 156 incorporated into the earlobereceptacle; a speaker 158; a microphone 173, and at least one controlunit 162 configured by one or more executable instructions stored oncomputer memory 160 to perform operations of: obtaining one or morephysiological measurements using the physiological sensor at 9008;outputting one or more audible indications associated with the one ormore physiological measurements via the speaker at 9010; recognizing oneor more audible commands output via one or more speakers associated withan aviation communication headset resultant from intercom speech inputvia a microphone of the aviation communication headset at 9012; andturning the insert device on or off based on the one or more audiblecommands at 9014. For example, the processor of the insert device canrecognize a speech command received via the microphone of the insertdevice to power down or enter a low power non-detecting state. Theprocessor can, upon recognizing the command, enter the low power or offstate. Similar functionality can be provided by the processor of theinsert device to power on from a low power state.

Note that any of the embodiments or operations discussed in reference tothe insert device can similarly be present or apply in the context ofthe replacement cushion device 164 or the ear clip 184 or the earcupattachment device 202 or the replacement cushion device 216.

FIG. 91 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one global positioning system (GPS) 134, at least one panelcommunication link 137 operable to interface with a panel-mountedcommunication system of an aircraft; at least one headset communicationradio 138; at least one headset push-to-talk button 122 that whenactivated causes bypass of the at least one panel communication link 137to transmit one or more radio broadcasts using the at least one headsetcommunication radio 138; and at least one control unit 106 configured byone or more executable instructions stored on computer memory 108 toperform operations including at least: receiving voice input using theat least one microphone following activation of the at least one headsetpush-to-talk button at 9108; recording the voice input to memory at9110; identifying an Air Traffic Control (ATC) recipient using voicerecognition with respect to the voice input at 9112; determining a radiofrequency based on the ATC recipient and based on a geographic locationdetermined using the at least one GPS unit at 9114; tuning the at leastone headset communication radio to the radio frequency at 9116;transmitting the voice input from memory over the radio frequency to theATC recipient, wherein the ATC recipient is any of a common trafficadvisory frequency, flight service station, unicom, tower, ground,clearance delivery, approach, or center at 9118. For example, aprocessor component of the aviation communication headset can receivethe audio of “Seattle Center N104ZU level 5000 VFR Bremerton” followingactivation of the auxiliary push to talk (PTT) button. The receivedaudio can be buffered to memory and the processor can recognize that theradio transmission as being intended for Seattle Center based on speechrecognition performed with respect to the audio. There being multiplepossible Seattle Center radio frequencies, the processor component candetermine the appropriate radio frequency based on position and altitudeinformation determined from the GPS unit. For instance, the radiofrequency of 127.05 can be identified by the processor component asbeing applicable to Seattle Center for the current GPS location andaltitude. The processor component can then tune the auxiliarycommunication radio to 127.05 and transmit the audio from memory over127.05 using the auxiliary radio. Thus, the pilot no longer requiresknowledge of the appropriate radio frequency and no longer must tune theradio frequency manually prior to transmission. Furthermore, nomodifications to aircraft avionics systems or aircraft radios arerequired as the auxiliary PTT of the aviation communication headsetenables the radio transmission to bypass the aircraft communicationradios in favor of the functionally advanced auxiliary communicationradio associated with the aviation communication headset.

FIG. 92 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one global positioning system (GPS) 134, at least one panelcommunication link 137 operable to interface with a panel-mountedcommunication system of an aircraft; at least one headset communicationradio 138; at least one headset push-to-talk button 122 that whenactivated causes bypass of the at least one panel communication link 137to transmit one or more radio broadcasts using the at least one headsetcommunication radio 138; and at least one control unit 106 configured byone or more executable instructions stored on computer memory 108 toperform operations including at least: receiving one or more radiobroadcasts using the at least one headset communication radio at 9208;and outputting the one or more radio broadcasts via the at least onespeaker with at least one recognizable sound that indicates the one ormore radio broadcasts is sourced from the at least one headsetcommunication radio at 9210. For example, the processor component canreceive one or more incoming radio transmissions via the auxiliary radioand output those radio transmissions via the speakers of the aviationcommunication headset. The aviation communication headset can alsosimultaneously receive incoming radio transmissions via any one or moreaircraft communication radios via the standard panel link. Due to themultitude of incoming radio transmissions and sources, the processorcomponent can provide a recognizable phrase or tone in association withthe output of audio sourced from the auxiliary communication radio.Alternatively, the processor component can modify the voice to assume acertain quality or characteristic (e.g., accent, male, female) when theaudio is sourced from the auxiliary communication radio. The additionaltone or phrase or modification to the voice by the processor componentenables a pilot to distinguish between radio broadcasts that originatefrom the auxiliary radio. For instance, the processor component can adda beep to an incoming auxiliary radio transmission such that the outputvia the speakers sounds as “BEEP N104ZU Seattle Center descend maintain3000.”

FIG. 93 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one global positioning system (GPS) 134, at least one panelcommunication link 137 operable to interface with a panel-mountedcommunication system of an aircraft; at least one headset communicationradio 138; at least one headset push-to-talk button 122 that whenactivated causes bypass of the at least one panel communication link 137to transmit one or more radio broadcasts using the at least one headsetcommunication radio 138; and at least one control unit 106 configured byone or more executable instructions stored on computer memory 108 toperform operations including at least: receiving voice input using theat least one microphone following activation of the at least one headsetpush-to-talk button at 9308; identifying an Air Traffic Control (ATC)recipient using voice recognition with respect to the voice input at9310; determining a radio frequency based on the ATC recipient and basedon a geographic location determined using the at least one GPS unit at9312; at 9314; and outputting a voice message via the at least onespeaker confirming that the at least one headset communication radio hasbeen tuned to the radio frequency associated with the ATC recipient,wherein the ATC recipient is any of a common traffic advisory frequency,flight service station, unicom, tower, ground, clearance delivery,approach, or center at 9316. For example, the processor component canrecognize a target recipient from audio obtained via the microphone ofthe aviation communication headset, identify the frequency of the targetrecipient based on the current geographic location, and then tune theauxiliary radio. The processor can provide an output via the speakers ofthe aviation communication headset to indicate that the auxiliary radiohas been tuned to the appropriate frequency and is ready fortransmission or receipt of broadcasts. For instance, the processorcomponent can receive audio of “Boeing Tower” upon detection of theauxiliary PTT. The processor component can recognize Boeing Tower anddetermine the appropriate frequency based on the GPS position andaltitude information, such as 118.3. The processor component can thencontrol the auxiliary radio to turn to 118.3 and then output the audioof “Boeing Tower Tuned.” The auxiliary radio can then receive andtransmit broadcasts using the 118.3 without the pilot ever needing toknow the appropriate frequency or manually tune to the frequency.

FIG. 94 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one global positioning system (GPS) 134, at least one panelcommunication link 137 operable to interface with a panel-mountedcommunication system of an aircraft; at least one headset communicationradio 138; at least one headset push-to-talk button 122 that whenactivated causes bypass of the at least one panel communication link 137to transmit one or more radio broadcasts using the at least one headsetcommunication radio 138; and at least one control unit 106 configured byone or more executable instructions stored on computer memory 108 toperform operations including at least: receiving voice input using theat least one microphone following activation of the at least one headsetpush-to-talk button at 9408; recording the voice input to memory at9410; identifying a local-area-type request using voice recognition withrespect to the voice input at 9412; determining a series of radiofrequencies that correspond to ATC recipients within a specifieddistance of a geographic location determined using the at least one GPSunit at 9414; and iteratively tuning the at least one headsetcommunication radio to each of the series of radio frequencies andtransmitting the voice input from memory to each of the ATC recipients,wherein the ATC recipient is any of a common traffic advisory frequency,flight service station, unicom, tower, ground, clearance delivery,approach, or center at 9416. For example, due to the overlap of radiofrequencies associated with various uncontrolled areas, the processorcomponent can recognize a speech command of “Local Area” or the likecontained in audio received from the microphone of the aviationcommunication headset following activation of the auxiliary PTT. Basedon recognition of this command, the processor component can identify thearea frequencies based on the GPS position information and iterativelybroadcast the message using the auxiliary radio to each of theidentified frequencies. For instance, a processor component can obtainthe audio of “Local Area N104ZU 7 North 3500 Inbound Full StopBremerton”. Based on recognition of the Local Area type command and theGPS position information, the processor component can identify the ApexAirport CTAF 122.8 and the Bremerton Airport CTAF 123.05. The processorcan transmit the audio via the 122.8 and then via the 123.05 frequenciesusing the auxiliary radio, thereby enabling the audio to be broadcast onall local and proximate frequencies to alert other aircraft of theintentions. The pilot is not required to know the frequencies of any ofthe local area airports or to tune to any of the frequencies manually.Note that the processor component can cycle between the identified localfrequencies rapidly to identify any responsive radio transmissions. Theprocessor component can also following the local area transmission tuneto the radio frequency closest to the geographic area based on thereceived GPS information, with changes in the tuning triggered uponupdated GPS information. That is, following the local area transmissionto Apex and Bremerton, the processor component can tune the auxiliaryradio to Apex until the GPS indicates 5 miles to Bremerton whereby theprocessor component tunes the auxiliary radio to Bremerton.

FIG. 95 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one global positioning system (GPS) 134, at least one panelcommunication link 137 operable to interface with a panel-mountedcommunication system of an aircraft; at least one headset communicationradio 138; at least one headset push-to-talk button 122 that whenactivated causes bypass of the at least one panel communication link 137to transmit one or more radio broadcasts using the at least one headsetcommunication radio 138; and at least one control unit 106 configured byone or more executable instructions stored on computer memory 108 toperform operations including at least: determining an Air TrafficControl (ATC) recipient based at least partly on a geographic locationdetermined using the GPS unit at 9508; and providing a voice message viathe at least one speaker indicating the ATC recipient for the geographiclocation in response to a determination that the currently tuned radiofrequency for the headset communication radio is associated with adifferent ATC recipient, wherein the ATC recipient is any of a commontraffic advisory frequency, flight service station, unicom, tower,ground, clearance delivery, approach, or center at 9510. For example,the processor component can constantly monitor the GPS location and thetuned frequency of the auxiliary communication radio. Upon detection ofa mismatch, the processor component can output an alert, reminder, ornotification via the speakers that the auxiliary radio may not beproperly tuned for the geographic area. For instance, enroute fromSeattle to Portland, the processor component can determine that theauxiliary radio is tuned to Seattle Approach 126.5, but based on the GPSposition the processor component can determine that the appropriatefrequency is Seattle Center on 120.3. The processor component can outputa notification to change to Seattle Center on 120.3 via the speakers orcan request permission to change to Seattle Center on 120.3. Theprocessor component can recognize speech received from the microphone ofthe aviation headset and control the auxiliary radio accordingly, suchas to initiate the tuning change.

FIG. 96 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one global positioning system (GPS) 134, at least one panelcommunication link 137 operable to interface with a panel-mountedcommunication system of an aircraft; at least one headset communicationradio 138; at least one headset push-to-talk button 122 that whenactivated causes bypass of the at least one panel communication link 137to transmit one or more radio broadcasts using the at least one headsetcommunication radio 138; and at least one control unit 106 configured byone or more executable instructions stored on computer memory 108 toperform operations including at least: determining a communicationfrequency based at least partly on a geographic location determinedusing the GPS unit at 9608; tuning the at least one headsetcommunication radio to the communication frequency automatically toenable reception and/or transmission on the communication frequency at9610; and outputting an indication via the at least one speakerindicating tuning of the at least one headset communication radio to thecommunication frequency at 9612. For example, the processor componentcan continuously monitor the GPS position information during a crosscountry flight and automatically tune the auxiliary radio to the closestairport frequency or the closest approach or center frequency to enablereception and/or broadcast. For instance, passing through CentralWashington near Snoqualmie Pass, the auxiliary communication radio canbe tuned by the processor to 122.9 when in proximity of Cle Elumairport, 123.0 when in proximity to Bowers Field, and 118.25 when inproximity to Grant Count Airport, thereby enabling fluid communicationwith the most proximate airport and traffic. No knowledge of the localfrequencies is required nor is any manual tuning of the auxiliary radio.

FIG. 97 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one global positioning system (GPS) 134, at least one panelcommunication link 137 operable to interface with a panel-mountedcommunication system of an aircraft; at least one headset communicationradio 138; at least one headset push-to-talk button 122 that whenactivated causes bypass of the at least one panel communication link 137to transmit one or more radio broadcasts using the at least one headsetcommunication radio 138; and at least one control unit 106 configured byone or more executable instructions stored on computer memory 108 toperform operations including at least: receiving voice input using theat least one microphone following activation of the at least one headsetpush-to-talk button at 9708; identifying a radio frequency using voicerecognition with respect to the voice input at 9710; tuning the at leastone headset communication radio to the radio frequency at 9712; andoutputting a voice message via the at least one speaker confirming thatthe at least one headset communication radio has been tuned to the radiofrequency at 9714. For instance, the processor can receive audio via themicrophone of the aviation communication headset of “Bremerton Weather”following activation of the auxiliary PTT button. The processorcomponent can determine the frequency of 121.2 for Bremerton AWOS basedon speech recognition performed with respect to the audio and retrievalof the frequency from memory. The processor component can then controlthe auxiliary communication radio by tuning such to 121.2 and outputtingan indication via the speakers of the aviation communication headsetthat the Bremerton Weather frequency 121.1 has been tuned.

FIG. 98 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one global positioning system (GPS) 134, at least one panelcommunication link 137 operable to interface with a panel-mountedcommunication system of an aircraft; at least one headset communicationradio 138; at least one headset push-to-talk button 122 that whenactivated causes bypass of the at least one panel communication link 137to transmit one or more radio broadcasts using the at least one headsetcommunication radio 138; and at least one control unit 106 configured byone or more executable instructions stored on computer memory 108 toperform operations including at least: receiving voice input using theat least one microphone absent activation of the at least one headsetpush-to-talk button and following detection of activation of an aircraftpush-to-talk button at 9808; buffering the voice input to memory withoutreleasing the voice input via the at least one panel communication linkat 9810; identifying an Air Traffic Control (ATC) recipient using voicerecognition with respect to the voice input at 9812; determining thatthe ATC recipient is associated with a currently tuned radio frequencyof the at least one headset communication radio at 9814; andtransmitting the voice input from memory over the at least one headsetcommunication radio instead of releasing the voice input via the atleast one panel communication link, wherein the ATC recipient is any ofa common traffic advisory frequency, flight service station, unicom,tower, ground, clearance delivery, approach, or center at 9816. With theintroduction of an auxiliary PTT button associated with an additionalauxiliary communication radio, it is possible for a pilot to getconfused and depress an aircraft PTT button for a radio transmissionthat should be broadcast via the auxiliary radio. In such circumstances,the processor component receives and buffers into memory audio receivedvia the microphone of the aviation communication headset followingdetection of activation of an aircraft PTT. The processor componentperforms speech recognition on the audio to determine the intendedrecipient before releasing the audio for broadcast on either theauxiliary communication radio of from the aircraft panel communicationradio. Upon identifying the intended recipient, the processor componentdetermines whether the auxiliary communication radio is tuned to afrequency for the intended recipient. If so, the processor componentredirects the audio to be broadcast over the auxiliary communicationradio instead of the panel mounted communication radio as requestedbased on the activation of the aircraft PTT button. For instance, theauxiliary communication radio may be tuned to Boeing Tower and theaircraft communication radio may be tuned to Bremerton CTAF. Theprocessor component can receive audio of “Boeing Tower N104ZU NorthVashon 1500 inbound with Whiskey” without detecting any activation ofthe auxiliary PTT button (e.g., the pilot accidentally activated theaircraft PTT button to transmit this radio broadcast, but the radiobroadcast would go to Bremerton and not Boeing). Accordingly, theprocessor component can hold the radio broadcast and determine that theauxiliary communication radio is tuned to Boeing Tower. Upon thisdetermination, the processor component can redirect the audio to bebroadcast over the auxiliary communication radio instead of releasingthe audio for transmission via the panel mounted communication radio,even without any activation of the auxiliary PTT button.

FIG. 99 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one global positioning system (GPS) 134, at least one panelcommunication link 137 operable to interface with a panel-mountedcommunication system of an aircraft; at least one headset communicationradio 138; at least one headset push-to-talk button 122 that whenactivated causes bypass of the at least one panel communication link 137to transmit one or more radio broadcasts using the at least one headsetcommunication radio 138; and at least one control unit 106 configured byone or more executable instructions stored on computer memory 108 toperform operations including at least: receiving voice input using theat least one microphone absent activation of the at least one headsetpush-to-talk button and following detection of activation of an aircraftpush-to-talk button at 9908; buffering the voice input to memory withoutreleasing the voice input via the at least one panel communication linkat 9910; identifying an Air Traffic Control (ATC) recipient using voicerecognition with respect to the voice input at 9912; determining thatthe ATC recipient is not associated with a currently tuned radiofrequency of the at least one headset communication radio at 9914; andreleasing the voice input from memory via the at least one panelcommunication link, wherein the ATC recipient is any of a common trafficadvisory frequency, flight service station, unicom, tower, ground,clearance delivery, approach, or center at 9916. For example, theprocessor component can obtain audio from the microphone of the aviationcommunication headset of “Bremerton N104ZU 5 East 2000 inbound planningleft 45 runway 20” following activation of the aircraft PTT button. Theprocessor component can hold the audio and confirm that the Bremertonfrequency is not tuned in the auxiliary communication radio beforereleasing the audio via the link to the aircraft communication radio forbroadcast as requested.

FIG. 100 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one global positioning system (GPS) 134, at least one panelcommunication link 137 operable to interface with a panel-mountedcommunication system of an aircraft; at least one headset communicationradio 138; at least one headset push-to-talk button 122 that whenactivated causes bypass of the at least one panel communication link 137to transmit one or more radio broadcasts using the at least one headsetcommunication radio 138; and at least one control unit 106 configured byone or more executable instructions stored on computer memory 108 toperform operations including at least: receiving voice input using theat least one microphone at 10008; identifying a command using voicerecognition with respect to the voice input, wherein the command is anyof tune to specified frequency, output current frequency, determinefrequency, suggest frequency, tune to emergency frequency, load block offrequencies for specified area, or remind of frequency change at 10010;executing the command at 10012; and outputting a voice message via theat least one speaker confirming that the at least one command has beenexecuted at 10014.

FIG. 101 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one global positioning system (GPS) 134, at least one panelcommunication link 137 operable to interface with a panel-mountedcommunication system of an aircraft; at least one headset communicationradio 138; at least one headset push-to-talk button 122 that whenactivated causes bypass of the at least one panel communication link 137to transmit one or more radio broadcasts using the at least one headsetcommunication radio 138; and at least one control unit 106 configured byone or more executable instructions stored on computer memory 108 toperform operations including at least: receiving at least one digitalrelay request contained in at least one radio transmission received fromanother aircraft radio via the at least one headset communication radioat 10108; tuning the at least one headset communication radio to acommunication frequency encoded in the at least one relay request at10110; and transmitting at least one message encoded in the at least onerelay request over the communication frequency on behalf of the otheraircraft radio to enable the other aircraft radio to communicateindirectly over the communication frequency using the at least oneheadset communication radio without redundant audio broadcasts at 10112.Due to line of sight limitations of radio broadcasts, it may bedifficult for an aircraft on the ground to reach air traffic control(ATC). Similarly, due to range limitations on radio broadcasts, it maybe difficult for an aircraft and ATC to communicate. Accordingly, theprocessor component of the aviation communication headset can relayradio broadcasts using the auxiliary communication radio on behalf ofanother aircraft. For example, the processor component can receive adigital relay request using the auxiliary communication radio, whichdigital relay request can originate from another aircraft radio (e.g.,an aircraft on the ground or further out from an aircraft in the air).The digital relay request can include the message and the frequency fortransmission, and is digitally encoded and not detectable by standardcommunication radios. Upon receiving the digital relay request, theprocessor component can determine the transmission frequency and decodethe audio message. The processor component can then transmit the audiomessage over the transmission frequency using the auxiliarycommunication radio. For instance, an aircraft on the ground may not beable to reach ATC for an instrument flight rules (IFR) clearance despitethere being many aircraft in the air above the airport with easy radioaccess to ATC. The ground aircraft communication radio can transmit arelay request with the message and transmission frequency to an airborneaircraft, which can decode the message and forward the broadcast overthe transmission frequency as described herein. This enables the groundaircraft to reach ATC without having to use a mobile phone in theaircraft or rush to make a clearance void time after receiving theclearance on a landline. Similarly, ATC may have difficulty reaching apilot under radar coverage despite the pilot being in line of sight withanother above radar coverage aircraft. ATC can transmit a relay request,which can be decoded and rebroadcast by the communication radio of theabove radar coverage aircraft to the below radar coverage aircraft.

FIG. 102 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one global positioning system (GPS) 134, at least one panelcommunication link 137 operable to interface with a panel-mountedcommunication system of an aircraft; at least one headset communicationradio 138; at least one headset push-to-talk button 122 that whenactivated causes bypass of the at least one panel communication link 137to transmit one or more radio broadcasts using the at least one headsetcommunication radio 138; and at least one control unit 106 configured byone or more executable instructions stored on computer memory 108 toperform operations including at least: receiving a response over acommunication frequency to a transmitted message at 10208; encoding theresponse digitally at 10210; transmitting the digital response over thecommunication frequency to enable another aircraft radio to receivecommunications indirectly using the headset communication radio withoutredundant audio broadcasts at 10212; and tuning the at least one headsetcommunication radio to a most-recent-prior communication frequency at10214. Following transmission of a radio broadcast, the processorcomponent can await a response on the transmitted frequency using theauxiliary communication radio. Upon receiving the response, theprocessor component can digitally encode the response and transmit suchto the aircraft requesting the relay. For instance, upon receiving arelay request for an aircraft on the ground and transmitting the messageassociated with the relay request on the specified frequency to SeattleCenter, the processor component can monitor the frequency of SeattleCenter for a response referencing the aircraft on the ground. Uponreceiving the response from Seattle Center, the processor component candigitally encode the message and forward it to the aircraft on theground for replay.

FIG. 103 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one global positioning system (GPS) 134, at least one panelcommunication link 137 operable to interface with a panel-mountedcommunication system of an aircraft; at least one headset communicationradio 138; at least one headset push-to-talk button 122 that whenactivated causes bypass of the at least one panel communication link 137to transmit one or more radio broadcasts using the at least one headsetcommunication radio 138; and at least one control unit 106 configured byone or more executable instructions stored on computer memory 108 toperform operations including at least: receiving voice data followingactivation of the at least one headset push-to-talk button at 10308;recognizing at least one relay request, communication frequency, andmessage based at least partly on speech recognition performed on thevoice data at 10310; digitally encoding the at least one relay requestand message for transmission at 10312; and transmitting a digital relayrequest and message over a communication frequency to enable the atleast one headset communication radio to extend or modify communicationrange through another aircraft radio without redundant audio broadcastsat 10314. For example, the processor component can receive audio such as“Relay Request Seattle Center 104ZU on the ground Hoquiam and requestingIFR clearance” received using the microphone of the aviationcommunication headset. The processor component can perform speechrecognition on the audio to identify the relay request nature of theaudio and can determine Seattle Center's radio frequency based on GPSposition information received. The processor component can thereafterdigitally encode the message and frequency and transmit the message viathe auxiliary communication radio for receipt and relay by anotheraircraft communication radio.

FIG. 104 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one global positioning system (GPS) 134, at least one panelcommunication link 137 operable to interface with a panel-mountedcommunication system of an aircraft; at least one headset communicationradio 138; at least one headset push-to-talk button 122 that whenactivated causes bypass of the at least one panel communication link 137to transmit one or more radio broadcasts using the at least one headsetcommunication radio 138; and at least one control unit 106 configured byone or more executable instructions stored on computer memory 108 toperform operations including at least: receiving a digital acceptanceindication by the at least one headset communication radio over acommunication frequency from another aircraft radio confirmingacceptance and broadcast of a relayed message at 10408. For example, theprocessor component can determine whether a relay request has beensatisfied by monitoring for one or more handshake or confirmationmessages received via the auxiliary communication radio indicating thata relay request has been received and satisfied. In the event, nohandshake or confirmation indication is received, the processorcomponent can retransmit the relay request periodically untilconfirmation is received.

FIG. 105 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one global positioning system (GPS) 134, at least one panelcommunication link 137 operable to interface with a panel-mountedcommunication system of an aircraft; at least one headset communicationradio 138; at least one headset push-to-talk button 122 that whenactivated causes bypass of the at least one panel communication link 137to transmit one or more radio broadcasts using the at least one headsetcommunication radio 138; and at least one control unit 106 configured byone or more executable instructions stored on computer memory 108 toperform operations including at least: receiving a digitally encodedresponse over a communication frequency from another aircraft radio at10508; decoding the digitally encoded response at 10510; and outputtingas sound the decoded response via the at least one speaker at 10512. Forexample, the processor component can receive a responsive encodeddigital message to a relay request. The encoded digital message can bedecoded into audio signals and output by the processor component via thespeakers of the aviation communication headset. For instance, anaircraft outside of radar coverage can communicate with ATC via anotheraircraft that is within radar coverage. The ATC response can be receivedby the processor component, decoded, and output permitting a expandedcommunication range.

FIG. 106 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one global positioning system (GPS) 134, at least one panelcommunication link 137 operable to interface with a panel-mountedcommunication system of an aircraft; at least one headset communicationradio 138; at least one headset push-to-talk button 122 that whenactivated causes bypass of the at least one panel communication link 137to transmit one or more radio broadcasts using the at least one headsetcommunication radio 138; and at least one control unit 106 configured byone or more executable instructions stored on computer memory 108 toperform operations including at least: receiving a digitally encodedresponse over a communication frequency from another aircraft radio at10608; decoding the digitally encoded response at 10610; outputting assound the decoded response via the at least one speaker at 10612.

FIG. 107 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one global positioning system (GPS) 134, at least one panelcommunication link 137 operable to interface with a panel-mountedcommunication system of an aircraft; at least one headset communicationradio 138; at least one headset push-to-talk button 122 that whenactivated causes bypass of the at least one panel communication link 137to transmit one or more radio broadcasts using the at least one headsetcommunication radio 138; and at least one control unit 106 configured byone or more executable instructions stored on computer memory 108 toperform operations including at least: receiving voice data obtained bythe at least one microphone following activation of the at least oneheadset push-to-talk button at 10708; recognizing at least one aircrafttail number and message based at least partly on speech recognitionperformed with respect to the voice data at 10710; converting themessage to text at 10712; transmitting the text via a cellular networkfor receipt by a phone device associated with the tail number at 10714;and broadcasting the voice data using the headset communication radio toattempt to contact another aircraft by multiple modalities at 10716.ADS-B traffic information provides information on proximate aircraft,including tail number information. However, communicating withidentified aircraft can be difficult or impossible since there is no wayto know which radio frequency is being monitored by the identifiedaircraft. Accordingly, the processor component can receive audio fromthe microphone of the aviation communication headset and recognize aplane-to-plane communication request following activation of theauxiliary PTT. For instance, “N7963G this is N104ZU state yourintentions.” The processor component can broadcast the message over thecurrently tuned frequency of the auxiliary radio. However, the processorcomponent can also recognize the intended recipient by the tail number,such as N7963G, and obtain the mobile phone number for the recipientfrom a pilot database. The processor component can convert the speech oraudio to text and transmit the text message to the phone numberassociated with the recipient using the auxiliary communication radio orBLUETOOTH or physically coupled mobile device. This functionalityenables enhanced pilot-to-pilot communication in instances outside ofairport airspace, such as during cross-country trips.

FIG. 108 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 10808; and outputtingfeedback information via the at least one speaker at 10810. For example,the processor of the smart aviation communication headset can receiveimage data from the camera of the smart aviation communication headset.The camera is positioned to provide a forward facing field of view thatcorresponds with the pilot's field of view when wearing the smartaviation communication headset. The processor analyzes the image data toidentify potential issues with instrument readings, radio settings,transponder or ELT settings, navigation or avionics settings, weather,engine readings, and/or health status outputs. The processor componentcontrols output to the speakers of the smart aviation communicationheadset to provide an audible indication of any issues identified usingthe camera image data.

FIG. 109 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 10908; performing speechrecognition to identify at least one ATC command received as audio toenter at least one specified transponder code 10910; detecting at leastone discrepancy involving a transponder when at least one squawk codedetected using the at least one camera is not consistent with the atleast one ATC command to enter the at least one specified transpondercode at 10912; and outputting feedback information via the at least onespeaker at 10914. For example, the processor component can receive audiodata from one or more radio outputs by using a microphone orintercepting the electronic signals. The processor can perform speechrecognition on the audio data received to determine a transponder codefor the aircraft, such as recognizing the ATC instruction of “N104ZUSquawk 6134”. Upon identifying the transponder code, the processorcomponent can monitor the visual field information using the camera ofthe smart aviation communication headset. Specifically, the processorcomponent can analyze the display imagery of the transponder unit orportion of the avionics system to determine whether 6134 has beenentered. In an even that 6134 is not entered or is entered incorrectlyas evidenced by the imagery of the field of view, the processorcomponent can control an output signal via the speakers to provide awarning. For instance, the processor can output the audio of “WarningTransponder Code Mismatch—squawk 6134”. The audio output is via thespeakers of the aviation communication headset.

FIG. 110 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 11008; performing speechrecognition to identify at least one ATC command received as audio toenter at least one specified radio frequency at 11010; detecting atleast one discrepancy involving a radio when at least one radiofrequency code detected using the at least one camera is not consistentwith the at least one ATC command to enter the at least one specifiedradio frequency at 11012; and outputting feedback information via the atleast one speaker at 11014. For example, the processor component of theaviation communication headset can intercept audio signals from a radiooutput and perform speech recognition to identify a radio frequencycommand. For instance, the processor component can perform speechrecognition on audio to recognize, “104ZU Change to My Frequency 125.1”.The processor component can then monitor and analyze imagery datacaptured by the camera of the aviation communication headset todetermine whether the radio interface indicates a radio frequency of125.1. In an event that the imagery data processed by the processorcomponent indicates a change to a frequency other than 125.1, such as126.1, the processor component can control output to the speakers towarn of the mismatch. For instance, the processor component can outputaudio data such as “Warning Radio Frequency Mismatch Tune 125.1.”

FIG. 111 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 11108; performing speechrecognition to identify at least one ATC command received as audio toenter at least one specified altimeter setting at 11110; detecting atleast one discrepancy involving an altimeter when at least one altimetersetting detected using the at least one camera is not consistent withthe at least one ATC command to enter the at least one specifiedaltimeter setting at 11112; and outputting feedback information via theat least one speaker at 11114. For example, the processor component cananalyze audio obtained from microphone positioned within the earcup ofthe aviation communication and perform speech recognition to identify acommand to set the altimeter. For instance, the speech recognition canidentify the ATC instruction of “N104ZU Altimeter 30.10”. Uponidentifying the altimeter setting, the processor component can analyzeimagery data obtained from the camera to determine whether the correctaltimeter setting has been entered. For instance, the imagery data caninclude images of an analog or digital altimeter. In an event that thealtimeter setting determined from the imagery data is inconsistent, suchas 31.10, the processor component can control an output to the speakersto warn of the mismatch. For instance, the audio output via the speakerscan be “Warning Altimeter Mismatch Set Altimeter 30.10”.

FIG. 112 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera 11208; performing speechrecognition to identify at least one ATC command received as audio toclimb or descend to a specified altitude, turn or maintain a specifiedheading, or maintain a specified airspeed at 11210; detecting at leastone discrepancy involving altitude, heading, or airspeed when at leastone avionics indication detected using the at least one camera is notconsistent with the at least one ATC command at 11212; and outputtingfeedback information via the at least one speaker at 11214. Forinstance, the processor component can intercept audio signals outputfrom a communication radio to identify a turn heading and altitude, suchas during an IFR clearance. For instance, through speech recognition,the processor component can identify an ATC instruction of “N104ZU turnleft 10 degrees and descend maintain niner thousand”. Upon recognizingthe heading and altitude instruction, the processor component cananalyze the imagery data obtained from the camera to determine whetherthe digital avionics system or analog instruments are indicating both aleft 10 degree turn and a descent to 9000 MSL. In an event that thecorrect heading and altitude is not reached within a specified time,such as within 10 seconds, the processor component can output an audiowarning signal via the speakers of the aviation communication headset,such as “Warning Descend to 9000 MSL and maintain heading of 170”.

FIG. 113 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 11308; comparing a firstvalue of a first avionics instrument obtained using image recognition toa second value of a second avionics instrument obtained using imagerecognition at 11310; detecting at least one discrepancy between thefirst avionics instrument and the second avionics instrument based onthe comparison at 11312; and outputting feedback information via the atleast one speaker at 11314. For example, the processor component cananalyze incoming image data from the camera and determine whether twoinstruments are displaying conflicting information. For instance, theprocessor component can identify the analog altimeter and the analogairspeed indicators and determine whether they are behaving according tospecified rules, such as level altitude should have constant airspeed.Similarly, the processor component can compare the turn coordinatorimagery data to the attitude indicator imagery data to determine whetherone is indicating a turn while the other is indicating level flight.Also, the imagery data corresponding to the attitude indicator can becompared to the imagery data of the airspeed indicator to determinewhether one is indicating a climb or descent while the other isindicating the opposite. The imagery data can be analyzed by theprocessor component to determine failure of a vacuum system, instrument,or electric system by comparing and cross-checking instruments accordingto one or more specified rules. In addition to monitoring the imagerydata of the traditional six-pack instruments, the imagery data ofelectronic avionics systems can be similarly monitored and analyzed fordiscrepancies. Likewise, imagery data corresponding to compass, headingindicators, CDI instruments, pitot-static instruments, and navigationsystems can be monitored to determine a failure of one or moreinstruments. In an event of a cross-reference mismatch betweeninstruments as indicated by imagery data analyzed, the processorcomponent can provide a warning output via the speakers. For instance,the processor component can provide the audible warning of “WarningVacuum System Failure, Cover up Attitude Indicator and HeadingIndicator.”

FIG. 114 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 11408; comparing a firstvalue of an analogue vacuum gyro driven instrument obtained using imagerecognition to a second value of an analogue electric gyro driveninstrument obtained using image recognition at 11410; detecting at leastone discrepancy between the analogue vacuum gyro driven instrument andthe analogue electric gyro avionics instrument based on the comparisonindicating conflicting information at 11412; and outputting feedbackinformation via the at least one speaker at 11414. For instance, theprocessor component can monitor incoming imagery data and identify theheading indicator, attitude indicator, and the turn coordinator. Theheading and attitude indicator typically are powered by a vacuum drivingsystem and the turn coordinator is typically powered by electrical. Theprocessor component can determine whether there is an inconsistencybetween the instrument outputs using the imagery data, such as the turncoordinator showing a turn to the right and the heading indicatorshowing a turn to the left. Upon determining a mismatch, the processorcomponent can identify other instruments to cross-check to determine thesource of the issue using the imagery data of the camera. For instance,the processor component in this example can look to the imagery data ofthe attitude indicator or the electronic navigation system to identify aturn to the right. Upon verifying that the turn coordinator isapparently functioning properly from the imagery data, the processorcomponent can signal an audio warning via the speakers, such as “WarningHeading Indicator Malfunction, Cover Heading Indicator”.

FIG. 115 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 11508; comparing a firstvalue of an analogue pitot-static instrument obtained using imagerecognition to a second value of an analogue gyro driven instrumentobtained using image recognition at 11510; detecting at least onediscrepancy between the analogue pitot-static instrument and theanalogue gyro avionics instrument based on the comparison indicatingconflicting information at 11512; and outputting feedback informationvia the at least one speaker at 11514. For example, the processorcomponent can identify the pitot-static instruments such as the verticalspeed indicator, airspeed indicator, and altimeter from the imagery dataobtained from the camera. The processor component can also identifygyroscopic instruments form the imagery data, such as the turncoordinator, attitude indicator, and heading indicator. These systemscan be represented electronically or via analog displays and recognizedin either case via the imagery data of the camera. The processorcomponent can perform cross-check and comparing functions of the dataindications determined for the instruments using the imagery data. Forinstance, the processor component may identify that the airspeedindicator is showing a gradual decrease in airspeed using the imagerydata while the attitude indicator indicates level flight using theimagery data. The processor component upon identifying the discrepancycan analyze the throttle and mixture and prop settings using the imagerydata as well as the other pitot-static instruments using the imagerydata. The processor can determine in this instance that the airspeedshould not be decreasing due to the throttle, prop, mixture, andgyroscopic outputs indicating an expected constant airspeed. Further,the processor component can verify from the imagery data that thealtimeter and vertical speed indicators have consistent issues with aclogged pitot tube or static port. The processor component uponidentifying the issue can output a warning indication via the speakers,such as “Warning pitot tube appears to be clogged, apply pitot heat.”

FIG. 116 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 11608; comparing a firstvalue of an analogue instrument obtained using image recognition to asecond value of an digital instrument obtained using image recognitionat 11610; detecting at least one discrepancy between the analogueinstrument and the digital instrument based on the comparison indicatingconflicting information at 11612; and outputting feedback informationvia the at least one speaker at 11614. For example, the processorcomponent can analyze image data obtained from the camera of theaviation communication headset to identify analog and digitalinstruments in a field of view. Analog instruments can include vacuum,gyro, compass, and pitot-static instruments. Digital instruments caninclude GPS, ADAHRS, solid-state sensor, and magnetometer basedinstruments. Digital instruments can also obtain input from analogsources. Analog instruments can similarly obtain input from digitalinstruments. The processor component can cross check analog againstdigital instrument readouts using the image data captured from thecamera. Inconsistencies and conflicts can be identified and theprocessor component can output indications via the speakers. Forinstance, the processor component can identify an inconsistency betweena GPS-based groundspeed and a pitot-static based airspeed using theimage capture data from the camera. Alternatively, the processorcomponent can identify an inconsistency between a gyroscopic attitudeindicator and a solid-state based digital magnetometer. The processorcomponent can then output an audible alert via the speakers, such as“Check attitude indicator”.

FIG. 117 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 11708; comparing a firstvalue of a first digital instrument obtained using image recognition toa second value of a second digital instrument obtained using imagerecognition at 11710; detecting at least one discrepancy between thefirst digital instrument and the second digital instrument based on thecomparison indicating conflicting information at 11712; and outputtingfeedback information via the at least one speaker at 11714. For example,the processor component can analyze the imagery data obtained from thecamera of the smart aviation communication headset to identify a digitalprimary flight display, a digital secondary flight display, and/or astandalone digital magnetometer. The processor component can monitorusing the imagery data the digital displays of each of the digitalavionics systems, which may each have independent power, ADAHRS, pitotstatic type inputs. Upon detecting a discrepancy, the processorcomponent can providing an audio output. For instance, the processorcomponent may detect a discrepancy in indicated heading between twodifferent digital avionics systems (e.g, one may indicate a heading of160 and the other may indicate a heading of 170). Using imageryassociated with a compass in a field of view of the camera, theprocessor component can determine that the magnetic compass supports oneof the heading readouts on the digital display. The processor componentcan then output audio via the speakers, such as “Secondary Flight Deck:Change to Heading of 170”.

FIG. 118 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 11908; comparing a value ofan avionics instrument obtained using image recognition to at least onespecified range of acceptable values for the avionics instrument at11910; detecting at least one discrepancy involving the avionicsinstrument based on the value being outside the at least one specifiedrange of acceptable values for the avionics instrument at 11912; andoutputting feedback information via the at least one speaker at 11914.For example, the processor component can perform image recognition withrespect to image data obtained from the camera of the headset toidentify the engine instruments on a digital display. The oil pressure,fuel pressure, fuel flow, oil temperature, RPM, manifold pressure, fuellevel, cylinder head temperature, and exhaust temperature can thereforebe monitored by the processor using image data obtained from the camera.In an event that the processor detects an unusual discrepancy or changein one instrument, the processor can output a warning regarding such viathe speakers of the headset. For instance, the processor can detect anunusual cylinder head temperature in cylinder 2 using a comparison ofthe image data obtained via the camera with recent or historicalcylinder head temperature for cylinder 2. Upon being outside a specificrange (e.g., 25 degrees), the processor component can provide an audibleoutput via the speakers of “Warning Cylinder 2 Unusually Hot”.

FIG. 119 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 11908; comparing a value ofan avionics instrument obtained using image recognition to at least onespecified range of acceptable values for the avionics instrument at11910; detecting at least one discrepancy involving the avionicsinstrument based on the value being outside the at least one specifiedrange of acceptable values for the avionics instrument at 11912; andoutputting feedback information via the at least one speaker at 11914.For example, the processor component can identify from the image dataobtained from the camera of the headset that the fuel flow from ananalog fuel flow gauge is below a specified range, such as 5 gallons perhour vs an acceptable range of 8-12 gallons per hour. Upon detecting anout of range instrument value using the image data, the processorcomponent can evaluate other cross-check instruments, such as RPM,mixture control settings, and fuel pressure gauges using the image data.Upon confirming the existence of an unexplained out-of-range instrumentreading using the image data, the processor component can signal anoutput. For instance, the processor component can output audio of“Warning Fuel Flow is Low”.

FIG. 120 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 12008 and providing atleast one corrective measure via the one or more speakers in response todetecting at least one discrepancy involving at least one avionicsinstrument using at least one camera at 12010. For example, theprocessor component can perform image recognition with respect to theimagery data obtained from the camera to identify high cylinder headtemperatures (e.g., over 400 degrees). The processor component can upondetecting a potential trouble situation, can provide an audible alertalong with a recommendation. For instance, the processor component canprovide an audible output of “High Cylinder Head Temperatures. IncreaseMixture. Decrease Angle of Attack. Reduce Power.” The processorcomponent can provide checklists audibly via the speaker of thecommunication headset in an even of a trouble situation detected usingthe image data of the camera. For instance, on engine shutdown asevidenced by image data showing low RPM, fuel flow, manifold pressure,temperature, etc., the processor component can output an audiblechecklist such as “Emergency Engine Off: Switch Fuel Tanks, OpenAlternative Air, Increase Mixture, Check Ignition, Fuel Boost Pump On.Transponder 7700. Radio 121.5. Mayday.” The checklist can be repeated bythe processor component in whole or in part.

FIG. 121 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 12108; outputting feedbackinformation via the at least one speaker at 12110; detecting at leastone urgent or emergency situation based at least partly on at least onedetected discrepancy at 12112; capturing at least one image or videostream of at least one field of view using at least one camera at 12114;transmitting the at least one image or video stream to at least onespecified recipient at 12116; and establishing at least onecommunication link with the at least one specified recipient to assistwith the at least one urgent or emergency situation at 12118. Forexample, the processor component can detect via image recognitionperformed with respect to the image data of the camera of the headset,an urgent situation such as inconsistent instruments during an IFRflight in IMC. Upon detecting the issue, the processor component canprovide feedback via the speakers of the headset as discussed herein.However, the processor can further identify an emergency contact, suchas ATC, flight instructor, trusted pilot friend, or a plurality ofindividuals, using contact information stored in a registry. Theprocessor component can thereafter establish wireless communication withthat individual (e.g., based on first person to acknowledge basis),including audio and image data communication. The processor componentcan stream imagery obtained using the image capture device of theheadset to the person, such as for review using a smartphone device orcomputer, and enable the person to troubleshoot from remote. Theprocessor can receive and transmit audio to enable real-timeconversation with the person reviewing the image data. Thus, a pilot canestablish quick communication with a remote trusted individual duringand emergency and use the aviation headset to communicate with thatperson. Image data can be further streamed to enable the person toremotely troubleshoot and provide advice as to what appears to be theproblem. The aviation communication headset can have built-in cellularor use BLUETOOTH or wired connection to communicate via a proximatesmartphone device.

FIG. 122 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 12208; outputting feedbackinformation via the at least one speaker at 12210; detecting at leastone urgent or emergency situation based at least partly on at least onediscrepancy involving at least one avionics instrument at 12212;obtaining one or more values of the at least one avionics instrument at12214; converting the one or more values to speech at 12216; andtransmitting the speech via one or more microphone links fortransmission using one or more radios of an aircraft at 12218. Forexample, the processor component can identify an urgent situation usingthe image data from the camera of the headset as discussed herein. Upondetecting such indication, the processor component can signal an audiooutput via the speakers. However, the processor component can alsotranslate the readout identified using image recognition to a speechversion. For instance, the processor component can determine that theairspeed indictor has dropped to 0 using the image data from the cameraof the headset. The processor component can convert this to thefollowing audio: “Pan Pan. N104ZU. Airspeed Zero. Altimeter FourThousand. GPS Altitude Four Thousand Ten.” The processor can then signalfor the audio to be transmitted via the communication radio on 121.5.The frequency can be user defined or automatically selected based onemergency frequencies.

FIG. 123 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 12308; outputting feedbackinformation via the at least one speaker at 12310; detecting at leastone urgent or emergency situation based at least partly on at least onediscrepancy involving the at least one avionics instrument at 12312;obtaining one or more values of the at least one avionics instrument at12314; converting the one or more values to digital data at 12316; andtransmitting the digital data via one or more microphone links fortransmission using one or more radios of an aircraft at 12318. Forexample, the processor component can identify using image data of thecamera an instance of engine problems and convert the image data intoengine monitored values.

For instance, the processor can determine the oil pressure as 35, thecylinder head temperatures to be 300/325/325/300/290/315, the fuel flowto be 12 gallons per hour, the fuel pressure to be 25, etc. Theprocessor can convert these values to digital information and transmitthe digital data via the aircraft radio to be received by anotheraircraft, wherein the other aircraft can be a proximate aircraft thatcan reproduce the image of the engine parameter values via a digitaldisplay for troubleshooting.

FIG. 124 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 12408; detecting at leastone aircraft within at least one field of view using informationobtained from the at least one camera at 12410; outputting at least oneaudible indication regarding the at least one aircraft via the at leastone speaker at 12412. For example, the processor component can performimage recognition on the image data of the camera of the smart aviationcommunication headset to identify a moving target aircraft within afield of view. The processor component can determine the relativeposition of the target aircraft within the field of view, relativealtitude, and direction of flight based on size and movement informationin the image data. The processor component can then provide an audibleoutput via the speakers of the aviation communication headset, such as“Traffic 2 o'clock. 500 Lower. Opposite Direction.” The processorcomponent can base the relative location on cues in the image data suchas the windscreen center, which can be established as 12 o'clock. Thus,the processor component can calibrate the relative location based on theposition of the center of the windscreen rather than the headorientation of a wearer of the headset.

FIG. 125 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 12508; outputting feedbackinformation via the at least one speaker at 12510; detecting at leastone weather parameter or condition at 12512; and transmitting the atleast one weather parameter or condition along with GPS positioninformation to at least one centralized pilot-report (PIREP) database at12514. For example, the processor component can determine cloudcoverage, visibility, and turbulence information using the image data ofthe camera (e.g., shaking or unstable field of view can indicateturbulence). The processor component can translate this information intoaudio data, such as “IMC. Visibility Nil” or “Clear. Visibility 10” or“Scattered. Visibility 10. Light Chop”. The processor component canobtain GPS information, such as using the image data of the camera andtransmit this information on a radio frequency for pilot reportedweather PIREP. The PIREP transmission can facilitate a morecomprehensive weather snapshot based on actual conditions, includingcloud bases, cloud tops, visibility, cloud coverage, and turbulence.

FIG. 126 is a system diagram of a smart aviation communication headset100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, an aviation communication headset 100 includes, but is notlimited to, at least one microphone 114; one or more speakers 112; atleast one camera 170 for capturing one or more images in a field ofview; and at least one control unit 106 configured by one or moreexecutable instructions stored on computer memory 108 to performoperations including at least: obtaining visual field of viewinformation using the at least one camera at 12608; detecting at leastone weather parameter or condition at 12610; determining whether the atleast one weather parameter or condition is below a specified thresholdat 12612; and outputting at least one audible indication that the atleast one weather parameter or condition is below the specifiedthreshold at 12614. For example, a processor component can analyze imagedata of a camera of the headset to identify visibility conditions, suchas on an instrument approach at minimums. The processor component candetermine from the image data and known reference values, such as thedetection of lights and the length of the MALSR lighting system on anapproach, the flight visibility. The processor component can then outputthe flight visibility in audible form, such as “1 Mile FlightVisibility” via the speakers of the headset. The required flightvisibility for a loaded approach, as determined by the processor usingthe image data of the camera, can be cross-referenced and the processorcan output audio such as “Flight Visibility for Approach Satisfied.”

While preferred and alternate embodiments of the invention have beenillustrated and described, as noted above, many changes can be madewithout departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.Accordingly, the scope of the invention is not limited by the disclosureof these preferred and alternate embodiments. Instead, the inventionshould be determined entirely by reference to the claims that follow.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for use with an aviation communicationheadset, the system comprising: a camera; a sensor including at leastone of an oximeter or a carbon monoxide detector; and at least onecontrol unit configured to perform operations including at least:obtaining one or more values of carbon monoxide or blood oxygen usingthe sensor; obtaining image data of one or more aircraft instrumentsusing the camera; determining existence of an abnormal condition basedon evaluation of the one or more values of carbon monoxide or bloodoxygen, and the image data of the one or more aircraft instruments;requesting a response from an individual via the aviation communicationheadset based on the existence of the abnormal condition; and initiatingan automated action based on the response from the individual beinginadequate or incoherent.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensoris incorporated within the aviation communication headset.
 3. The systemof claim 1, wherein the sensor comprises: an oximeter incorporated on orwithin a cushion of an earcup of the aviation communication headset. 4.The system of claim 1, wherein the obtaining one or more valuescomprises: obtaining via a hotspot the one or more values.
 5. The systemof claim 1, wherein the at least one control unit is further configuredto perform an operation comprising: pairing with at least onesmartphone, tablet, or avionics system to display the one or morevalues.
 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one control unitis further configured to perform an operation comprising: controlling anoxygen dispenser to release supplemental oxygen based at least partly onthe one or more values.
 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the at leastone control unit is further configured to perform an operationcomprising: controlling an autopilot based at least partly on the one ormore values.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one controlunit is further configured to perform an operation comprising: obtaininga speech request originating from a microphone of the aviationcommunication headset, the speech request usable to initiate sampling ofthe one or more values.
 9. The system of claim 1, wherein the at leastone control unit is further configured to perform an operationcomprising: obtaining a speech request originating from a microphone ofthe aviation communication headset, the speech request usable tocalibrate a threshold for the abnormal condition.
 10. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the at least one control unit is further configured toperform an operation comprising: outputting one or more alerts via atleast one of augmented reality glasses, heads up display, or syntheticvision goggles linked to the aviation communication headset at leastpartly in response to the existence of the abnormal condition.
 11. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the at least one control unit is furtherconfigured to perform an operation including analyzing the image dataobtained from the camera to identify one or more potential issuesassociated with one or more aircraft instrument readings or settings.12. The system of claim 1, wherein the initiating an automated actionbased on the response from the individual being inadequate or incoherentcomprises: automatically tuning a communication radio and broadcasting aradio communication message.
 13. The system of claim 1, wherein theinitiating an automated action based on the response from the individualbeing inadequate or incoherent comprises: automatically tuning atransponder to an emergency squawk code.
 14. The system of claim 1,wherein the initiating an automated action based at least partly on theresponse from the individual being inadequate or incoherent comprises:prompting an emergency checklist audibly via the aviation communicationheadset.
 15. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensor further includesone or more of the following types: heart rate, pupil dilation,movement, blood pressure, respiration, skin coloration, chemicalcomposition, perspiration, temperature, or electrical impulse.
 16. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the camera is positioned on the aviationcommunication headset with a forward-facing field of view.
 17. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the abnormal condition comprises adiscrepancy between an instrument and at least one air traffic control(ATC) command provided via the aviation communication headset.
 18. Anaviation communication headset comprising: a camera with aforward-facing field of view; a sensor including at least one of acarbon monoxide detector or an oximeter; and at least one control unitconfigured to perform operations including at least: obtaining one ormore values of carbon monoxide or blood oxygen using the sensor;obtaining one or more values of one or more aircraft instruments usingthe camera; determining existence of an abnormal condition based onevaluation of the one or more values of carbon monoxide or blood oxygen,and the one or more values of the one or more aircraft instruments;requesting a response from an individual based on the existence of theabnormal condition; and initiating an action based on the response fromthe individual being inadequate or incoherent.
 19. A system for use withan aviation communication headset, the system comprising: a camera; apulse oximeter; and at least one control unit configured to performoperations including at least: obtaining one or more values of the pulseoximeter; obtaining image data of one or more aircraft instruments usingthe camera; determining existence of an abnormal condition based onevaluation of the one or more values of the pulse oximeter and the imagedata of the one or more aircraft instruments; requesting a response froman individual via the aviation communication headset based on theexistence of the abnormal condition; and initiating an action based onthe response from the individual being inadequate or incoherent.